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The Weapon and the Fruit: Any Body Can Murder
A serial killer with a taste for classic crime. Murder scenes staged all over West London. An invitation to play.
Private Detective Lance Pomegranate has received an amusing email. At first it appears to be a typical scam. But unlike every other fraudster sullying his inbox, this one isn’t asking for his bank details. The sender knows exactly who Lance is and is demanding that he play a dangerous game.
Taking inspiration from Agatha Christie’s The ABC Murders, unhinged emailer Malcolm Dombattu has meticulously constructed a pattern of deaths designed to confuse and mislead. The victims don’t realise they’re playing, but Lance, barefoot as always and unwilling to abide by anyone’s rules but his own, wades towards the deep end.
As the bodies mount, the case turns personal, and when the killer strikes at Lance’s deepest vulnerabilities, the detective is forced to question not just the nature of the game, but whether solving the case will cost him more than he can afford to lose.
Beloved characters make a welcome return to assist Lance - some more willingly than others - in this sharp, suspenseful sequel to Four and Twenty Blackboards. Any Body Can Murder is a gripping crime novel where fiction meets reality, secrets refuse to stay buried, and every step closer to the truth comes at a price.
Private Detective Lance Pomegranate has received an amusing email. At first it appears to be a typical scam. But unlike every other fraudster sullying his inbox, this one isn’t asking for his bank details. The sender knows exactly who Lance is and is demanding that he play a dangerous game.
Taking inspiration from Agatha Christie’s The ABC Murders, unhinged emailer Malcolm Dombattu has meticulously constructed a pattern of deaths designed to confuse and mislead. The victims don’t realise they’re playing, but Lance, barefoot as always and unwilling to abide by anyone’s rules but his own, wades towards the deep end.
As the bodies mount, the case turns personal, and when the killer strikes at Lance’s deepest vulnerabilities, the detective is forced to question not just the nature of the game, but whether solving the case will cost him more than he can afford to lose.
Beloved characters make a welcome return to assist Lance - some more willingly than others - in this sharp, suspenseful sequel to Four and Twenty Blackboards. Any Body Can Murder is a gripping crime novel where fiction meets reality, secrets refuse to stay buried, and every step closer to the truth comes at a price.
346 pages, ebook
Published July 7, 2025
2 people are currently reading
5 people want to read
About the author
L.E. Bendon
2 books8 followersL.E. Bendon was born in 1983 and wishes Terry Pratchett were still not dead.
He had built quite a satisfying musician’s life for himself up until 2020 when it was suddenly on hold, for reasons we can all remember, and so he put the compulsory free time to use in an attempt to discover whether he could indeed write, polish and publish a novel.
In creating irreverent detective Lance Pomegranate, along with his friends, associates, and acquaintances, Bendon took to writing a mix of what he knows, what he's merely read about, and a few ideas he just likes.
L.E. Bendon is from London, living in South India, where most people know him as a musician who spends an awful lot of his spare time writing novels on his laptop in cafés. Prior to his debut novel in 2025 all of his published work has been sheet music. He speaks a few languages well enough not to be confused or misled while abroad, though not well enough to translate his own books just yet. He loves cats but really prefers tortoises.
He hasn't settled on what L.E. stands for. It is just a pen name after all. Perhaps he'll give a different response each time he is asked, always choosing names that are significant to him. For now, it can be Ludwig Elderberry.
He had built quite a satisfying musician’s life for himself up until 2020 when it was suddenly on hold, for reasons we can all remember, and so he put the compulsory free time to use in an attempt to discover whether he could indeed write, polish and publish a novel.
In creating irreverent detective Lance Pomegranate, along with his friends, associates, and acquaintances, Bendon took to writing a mix of what he knows, what he's merely read about, and a few ideas he just likes.
L.E. Bendon is from London, living in South India, where most people know him as a musician who spends an awful lot of his spare time writing novels on his laptop in cafés. Prior to his debut novel in 2025 all of his published work has been sheet music. He speaks a few languages well enough not to be confused or misled while abroad, though not well enough to translate his own books just yet. He loves cats but really prefers tortoises.
He hasn't settled on what L.E. stands for. It is just a pen name after all. Perhaps he'll give a different response each time he is asked, always choosing names that are significant to him. For now, it can be Ludwig Elderberry.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
June 13, 2025
I was lucky enough to score an eARC of this book and what a follow up!! I think I genuinely liked this one a little more than the first. I’m always down for a good murder mystery, but a murder mystery that has me curious to what is going on until the very end? It’s a rare thing! Generally I always piece things together but I really had no theories, and just as I thought I had a theory I was proven wrong. It was a riot through and through, highly recommend!
May 31, 2025
ARC Review: Book out July 2025
Very pleased to have received and reviewed an advanced copy of L.E. Bendon's 'The Weapon and the Fruit: Any Body Can Murder', second in a detective series but can be a stand alone.
Meet Private Detective Lance Pomegranate, the Barefoot Detective. After receiving an email first thought to be fake, it quickly becomes clear the sender knows Lance and tells him to get ready for a series of 'alphabetically' planned murders.
Where will we get in the alphabet before the killer is caught?
After the first murder, Lance has to work quickly to find out who's next...can he help no nonsense DI Owusu and dutiful, devoted DS Krol to prevent it?
Through some witty exchanges and very clever names, the story links different possibilities with more insight into the characters and this is something I really like. For me, it makes that connection stronger, keeping you reading. Some readers prefer less description, but I think it adds to the development of the story through the characters' own quirks.
Lance himself is very quirky, presented in such a way that I liked him from the start. Through relationships he has and people he meets along the way, you realise there may be more to this PD. Looking forward to reading the first book to find out more - although I don't think not knowing more detracts from the enjoyment of this book.
As the investigations progress, so do suspicions and the characters come alive...Sheila Cotton to name just one! From a high-heeled journalist to an excitable podcaster - sorry, influencer - they are so entertaining! One thing I'd like is a bit more Stanley...a four-legged friend always gets my vote!
Thoroughly enjoyed and this is an author I'd definitely like to read more from.
Fans of Richard Osman and Robert Thorogood Murder Club books, this one is definitely for you.
Or, if you're just looking for your next good read, like a cleverly written murder mystery with a sharp dose of wit, humour and sarcasm, then you won't go wrong here.
📚💫📚
Very pleased to have received and reviewed an advanced copy of L.E. Bendon's 'The Weapon and the Fruit: Any Body Can Murder', second in a detective series but can be a stand alone.
Meet Private Detective Lance Pomegranate, the Barefoot Detective. After receiving an email first thought to be fake, it quickly becomes clear the sender knows Lance and tells him to get ready for a series of 'alphabetically' planned murders.
Where will we get in the alphabet before the killer is caught?
After the first murder, Lance has to work quickly to find out who's next...can he help no nonsense DI Owusu and dutiful, devoted DS Krol to prevent it?
Through some witty exchanges and very clever names, the story links different possibilities with more insight into the characters and this is something I really like. For me, it makes that connection stronger, keeping you reading. Some readers prefer less description, but I think it adds to the development of the story through the characters' own quirks.
Lance himself is very quirky, presented in such a way that I liked him from the start. Through relationships he has and people he meets along the way, you realise there may be more to this PD. Looking forward to reading the first book to find out more - although I don't think not knowing more detracts from the enjoyment of this book.
As the investigations progress, so do suspicions and the characters come alive...Sheila Cotton to name just one! From a high-heeled journalist to an excitable podcaster - sorry, influencer - they are so entertaining! One thing I'd like is a bit more Stanley...a four-legged friend always gets my vote!
Thoroughly enjoyed and this is an author I'd definitely like to read more from.
Fans of Richard Osman and Robert Thorogood Murder Club books, this one is definitely for you.
Or, if you're just looking for your next good read, like a cleverly written murder mystery with a sharp dose of wit, humour and sarcasm, then you won't go wrong here.
📚💫📚
May 15, 2025
The stand-alone yet follow-up in The Weapon and The Fruit series by L. E. Bendon, Any Body Can Murder, really ups the stakes! The cat and mouse nature of the plot is much different than the first novel in the series; there’s the same cozy vibe, leaning heavily on the importance of friendship and acceptance, but with a more dangerous villain. It’s difficult to keep a cozy feeling in a book about a serial killer, but Bendon manages to juggle darkness and light with ease!
The plot itself is intricate. The rush to catch the killer brims with technology and good old-fashioned legwork (or should I say footwork?) and subtly points out the dangers of technology along with its necessity. What starts as a simple email scam evolves into a revelation: a cold-blooded serial killer stalks Lance’s associates.
Throughout the investigation, the diverse characters continue to sparkle with their distinct personalities, and the growth each one undergoes throughout the series is well-earned. I especially loved the progression of the relationship between Private Detective Lance Pomegranate and the ruthless reporter, Ciara Gallen, who gets much more (deserved) page-time. There are also a few quirky new faces for freshness. And the social commentary is just as fun as in the debut!
Bendon drops meticulous hints throughout the book, weaving them through a rich tapestry of cheeky dialogue, decadent wine, and, of course, murder. The ending is incredibly satisfying! Highly recommend this book to any murder mystery lover!
I was given this ARC in return for an honest review.
The plot itself is intricate. The rush to catch the killer brims with technology and good old-fashioned legwork (or should I say footwork?) and subtly points out the dangers of technology along with its necessity. What starts as a simple email scam evolves into a revelation: a cold-blooded serial killer stalks Lance’s associates.
Throughout the investigation, the diverse characters continue to sparkle with their distinct personalities, and the growth each one undergoes throughout the series is well-earned. I especially loved the progression of the relationship between Private Detective Lance Pomegranate and the ruthless reporter, Ciara Gallen, who gets much more (deserved) page-time. There are also a few quirky new faces for freshness. And the social commentary is just as fun as in the debut!
Bendon drops meticulous hints throughout the book, weaving them through a rich tapestry of cheeky dialogue, decadent wine, and, of course, murder. The ending is incredibly satisfying! Highly recommend this book to any murder mystery lover!
I was given this ARC in return for an honest review.
May 13, 2025
Everybody loves a good murder mystery, right? Did this tick all the murder mystery boxes? Yes. Did I love the book? Too right I did!
Any Body Can Murder is the second book in The Weapon and The Fruit series. It follows Private Detective Pomegranate (love the name!) an Aussie living in London, with a love of walking bare foot! I found this crazy thinking about walking bare foot in London but each to their own! Lance is contacted by what he thinks is a spam email which actually turns out to be a wannabe serial killer taunting him. The wannabe references the ABC murders by Agatha Christie. Lance and his friends, who happen to be DI Esi Owusu and DS Pawel Krol have to try and decipher the clues in the emails to find the killer.
The first thing I loved was the actual concept of the ABC murders, I know this is technically Agatha Christie but it’s such a good concept for a serial killer. Also, the title of the book “Any Body Can…” ABC… brilliant. The way each murder was committed was and staged was also brilliant, trying to throw the scent onto different suspects, all of which have a personal link to Lance.
I did find it strange procedurally that a Private Detective would be working with the police so closely, for example sitting in interviews and gathering evidence for them, but hey ho this is a fiction book, who cares?
I really liked all the characters in this book, they are all very diverse and have their different quirks which you don’t normally find in crime thriller books. They all tend to be a white male or a white female and it goes as far as that. However, L.E. Bendon uses their diversity in this book so well and they diversity helps subtly play on the worlds current issues which was very clever.
The only thing I would change personally was the amount of writing that was just about the characters ordering food or eating or describing how they’re doing things. For example picking up the phone, dialling the number or this character turns left turns right. It’s great visually describing that but it’s not really needed or adds anything to the story.
Overall, for L.E. Bendon’s second book, you’ve done yourself proud!! A fantastic murder mystery which kept me guessing until the end (I won’t spoil it for anyone).
I am looking forward to the next book in the series! One of my favourite parts was a reference to the “a succulent Chinese meal” meme iykyk.
I got sent this as an ARC in return for an honest review.
Any Body Can Murder is the second book in The Weapon and The Fruit series. It follows Private Detective Pomegranate (love the name!) an Aussie living in London, with a love of walking bare foot! I found this crazy thinking about walking bare foot in London but each to their own! Lance is contacted by what he thinks is a spam email which actually turns out to be a wannabe serial killer taunting him. The wannabe references the ABC murders by Agatha Christie. Lance and his friends, who happen to be DI Esi Owusu and DS Pawel Krol have to try and decipher the clues in the emails to find the killer.
The first thing I loved was the actual concept of the ABC murders, I know this is technically Agatha Christie but it’s such a good concept for a serial killer. Also, the title of the book “Any Body Can…” ABC… brilliant. The way each murder was committed was and staged was also brilliant, trying to throw the scent onto different suspects, all of which have a personal link to Lance.
I did find it strange procedurally that a Private Detective would be working with the police so closely, for example sitting in interviews and gathering evidence for them, but hey ho this is a fiction book, who cares?
I really liked all the characters in this book, they are all very diverse and have their different quirks which you don’t normally find in crime thriller books. They all tend to be a white male or a white female and it goes as far as that. However, L.E. Bendon uses their diversity in this book so well and they diversity helps subtly play on the worlds current issues which was very clever.
The only thing I would change personally was the amount of writing that was just about the characters ordering food or eating or describing how they’re doing things. For example picking up the phone, dialling the number or this character turns left turns right. It’s great visually describing that but it’s not really needed or adds anything to the story.
Overall, for L.E. Bendon’s second book, you’ve done yourself proud!! A fantastic murder mystery which kept me guessing until the end (I won’t spoil it for anyone).
I am looking forward to the next book in the series! One of my favourite parts was a reference to the “a succulent Chinese meal” meme iykyk.
I got sent this as an ARC in return for an honest review.
May 15, 2025
The Weapon and the Fruit: Any Body Can Murder by L.E. Bendon
Rating: 3.5/5
Any Body Can Murder is a quirky, cleverly plotted murder mystery that delivers a dose of British humour and charm, all wrapped up in a game of cat and mouse with a serial killer who takes inspiration from classic crime fiction. Although it’s the second book in the series, it can be read as a standalone (which I did), though I suspect readers will enjoy it even more with the added context of book one.
Private Detective Lance Pomegranate is an offbeat and entertaining lead, and the cast of returning characters adds colour and complexity to the mystery. I particularly enjoyed the nods to Agatha Christie and the old-school murder mystery style—it gave the book a nostalgic feel while still feeling fresh.
The pacing occasionally dipped due to scenes that felt a little heavy on unnecessary detail, especially when describing what the characters were doing. These moments slowed the momentum for me, but overall, the wit, charm, and intriguing storyline kept me invested.
If you enjoy eccentric characters, classic murder mystery vibes, and a touch of dark humour, this book is definitely worth a read. I’m curious to go back and read Four and Twenty Blackboards now to fully appreciate the world L.E. Bendon has created.
Rating: 3.5/5
Any Body Can Murder is a quirky, cleverly plotted murder mystery that delivers a dose of British humour and charm, all wrapped up in a game of cat and mouse with a serial killer who takes inspiration from classic crime fiction. Although it’s the second book in the series, it can be read as a standalone (which I did), though I suspect readers will enjoy it even more with the added context of book one.
Private Detective Lance Pomegranate is an offbeat and entertaining lead, and the cast of returning characters adds colour and complexity to the mystery. I particularly enjoyed the nods to Agatha Christie and the old-school murder mystery style—it gave the book a nostalgic feel while still feeling fresh.
The pacing occasionally dipped due to scenes that felt a little heavy on unnecessary detail, especially when describing what the characters were doing. These moments slowed the momentum for me, but overall, the wit, charm, and intriguing storyline kept me invested.
If you enjoy eccentric characters, classic murder mystery vibes, and a touch of dark humour, this book is definitely worth a read. I’m curious to go back and read Four and Twenty Blackboards now to fully appreciate the world L.E. Bendon has created.
June 21, 2025
Agh!! I love how this came together brilliantly at the end. I've just finished and it was a very satisfying ending indeed!
However, I'm jumping ahead, let's rewind a moment.
The Weapon and the Fruit: Any Body Can Murder by L.E. Bendon is the second book in the series but I'm a newcomer and it's my first encounter with Lance Pomegranate and Co.
The first thing to note is that Lance is a quirky Australian Private Detective, living and working barefoot in London. He is also supported by a great cast of interesting, and likeable characters.
"I can tell you a few things anyway" said Lance. "I was contacted by the killer, posing as a 419 scammer at first, before he started taunting me, telling me he was going to kill, before killing. And he's done it twice. Using the alphabet for clues."
The story opens with Lance receiving an email which is assumed a scam but it soon becomes apparent that the "scammer" knows who Lance is.
As the emails go back and forth, Lance is quickly invited to play a game. A dangerous game in the style of Agatha Chrustie's The ABC Murders and the bodies start to mount up.
It's a race to unravel the clues and get to the killer before they take someone close to Lance's heart.
Creative, full of twists and turns and the classic Poirot-vibe reveal, this was a fun, murder mystery.
However, I'm jumping ahead, let's rewind a moment.
The Weapon and the Fruit: Any Body Can Murder by L.E. Bendon is the second book in the series but I'm a newcomer and it's my first encounter with Lance Pomegranate and Co.
The first thing to note is that Lance is a quirky Australian Private Detective, living and working barefoot in London. He is also supported by a great cast of interesting, and likeable characters.
"I can tell you a few things anyway" said Lance. "I was contacted by the killer, posing as a 419 scammer at first, before he started taunting me, telling me he was going to kill, before killing. And he's done it twice. Using the alphabet for clues."
The story opens with Lance receiving an email which is assumed a scam but it soon becomes apparent that the "scammer" knows who Lance is.
As the emails go back and forth, Lance is quickly invited to play a game. A dangerous game in the style of Agatha Chrustie's The ABC Murders and the bodies start to mount up.
It's a race to unravel the clues and get to the killer before they take someone close to Lance's heart.
Creative, full of twists and turns and the classic Poirot-vibe reveal, this was a fun, murder mystery.
July 8, 2025
This was such a funny book with witty one liners and sarcasm 😂
Definitely on the slower paced side but I expect that in a cosy crime. For me it does take a little while to get going with this kind of book but I thought the crimes were kicking off early in here.
Chapters were mid length and there were good cliffhangers on some to keep you wanting more!
I especially loved the email correspondence between Lance and Malcom 😂
Loved the name play throughout and everyone giving Lance different surnames really made me chuckle 😂
The whole barefoot thing was great, loved the theme of that and maybe I’ll try it myself one day… not on the escalators though 😂
I found most of the characters enjoyable and with good humour. Having not read the first book though I feel I was missing a little bit of back story to some of them/ character development that I think would’ve elevated the second book a little more for me. Plus knowing a bit about the crime in the first book to get some of the references in this book a little better.
Having said that it didn’t detract from the actual plot of this book and following along with the crimes and what was happening.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of the book in exchange for my honest review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Definitely on the slower paced side but I expect that in a cosy crime. For me it does take a little while to get going with this kind of book but I thought the crimes were kicking off early in here.
Chapters were mid length and there were good cliffhangers on some to keep you wanting more!
I especially loved the email correspondence between Lance and Malcom 😂
Loved the name play throughout and everyone giving Lance different surnames really made me chuckle 😂
The whole barefoot thing was great, loved the theme of that and maybe I’ll try it myself one day… not on the escalators though 😂
I found most of the characters enjoyable and with good humour. Having not read the first book though I feel I was missing a little bit of back story to some of them/ character development that I think would’ve elevated the second book a little more for me. Plus knowing a bit about the crime in the first book to get some of the references in this book a little better.
Having said that it didn’t detract from the actual plot of this book and following along with the crimes and what was happening.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of the book in exchange for my honest review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Read
June 7, 2025The book’s title is inspired by Agatha Christie’s The ABC Murders, I love this and spotted it straight away. I thought this title was pure brilliance. I also love the image bringing the murder mystery bang up to date. I loved the characters I enjoyed that, unlike your average murder mystery, are often plot based, we get to explore the characters themselves in more detail.
These are very diverse characters. It is quite a descriptive book with what the characters are doing so it is great if you like or need that with your reads. I don’t like to go into a plot too much as I offer non-spoiler reviews.
As I write this review sat in Chinatown in London on a sunny evening with a tub of fresh Chinese noodles I have to say I love the mention of a famous meme ‘a succulent Chinese meal’, it was like yes get in!
Made me chuckle in a ‘if you know, you know’ kind of thing that was amazing, so thank you L.E. Bendon for that. I absolutely love this. If you are an Agatha Christie and or Richard Osman fan or general murder mystery fan you do not want to miss this.
These are very diverse characters. It is quite a descriptive book with what the characters are doing so it is great if you like or need that with your reads. I don’t like to go into a plot too much as I offer non-spoiler reviews.
As I write this review sat in Chinatown in London on a sunny evening with a tub of fresh Chinese noodles I have to say I love the mention of a famous meme ‘a succulent Chinese meal’, it was like yes get in!
Made me chuckle in a ‘if you know, you know’ kind of thing that was amazing, so thank you L.E. Bendon for that. I absolutely love this. If you are an Agatha Christie and or Richard Osman fan or general murder mystery fan you do not want to miss this.
July 6, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I found the second installment in the series even more immersive. From the very first page, it had me laughing out loud.
Private Detective Lance Pomegranate is back and as unconventional as ever, solving crimes barefoot and on his own terms. The story begins with what appears to be a typical scam email, but things take a dramatic turn as bodies start piling up.
The emails from Malcolm Dombattu are bizarre and entertaining, but beneath the humour lies a carefully planned pattern of death. Lance must not only solve the case but also confront personal stakes.
The pacing is sharp, the characters are eccentric yet grounded, and the plot kept me guessing until the very end. It strikes the perfect balance between comedy and suspense.
If you're looking for a mystery that is both clever and laugh-out-loud funny, with a detective who breaks all the rules, this is the book to read.
Private Detective Lance Pomegranate is back and as unconventional as ever, solving crimes barefoot and on his own terms. The story begins with what appears to be a typical scam email, but things take a dramatic turn as bodies start piling up.
The emails from Malcolm Dombattu are bizarre and entertaining, but beneath the humour lies a carefully planned pattern of death. Lance must not only solve the case but also confront personal stakes.
The pacing is sharp, the characters are eccentric yet grounded, and the plot kept me guessing until the very end. It strikes the perfect balance between comedy and suspense.
If you're looking for a mystery that is both clever and laugh-out-loud funny, with a detective who breaks all the rules, this is the book to read.
September 18, 2025
Any Body Can Murder by L.E Bendon.
A serial killer with a taste for classic crime. Murder scenes staged all over West London. An invitation to play.
Firstly, thank you so much to L.E Bendon for reaching out and sending a signed copy of your book in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed this book. It is the second in the series but I hadn’t read the first and didn’t feel confused or like I was missing anything significant to the plot.
I really liked Lance- the main character- but wasn’t so sure about the foot scene (iykyk)! Also found all the characters were likeable and there were lots of funny scenes.
The book is inspired by Agatha Christie’s ABC murders and as a massive Agatha fan, L.E Bendon smashed it!
I devoured this book in 2 days and was left guessing right until the reveal.
A serial killer with a taste for classic crime. Murder scenes staged all over West London. An invitation to play.
Firstly, thank you so much to L.E Bendon for reaching out and sending a signed copy of your book in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed this book. It is the second in the series but I hadn’t read the first and didn’t feel confused or like I was missing anything significant to the plot.
I really liked Lance- the main character- but wasn’t so sure about the foot scene (iykyk)! Also found all the characters were likeable and there were lots of funny scenes.
The book is inspired by Agatha Christie’s ABC murders and as a massive Agatha fan, L.E Bendon smashed it!
I devoured this book in 2 days and was left guessing right until the reveal.
June 3, 2025
It took me a little while to get into this one, but once I was in—I had to keep going to find out what was happening. I love a good murder mystery, and this one delivered, with an extra twist of humour throughout that made it a really unique read.
Lance Pomegranate is such a standout character—very quirky, and let’s just say the whole “feet” thing makes him unforgettable. (No spoilers, but you’ll know what I mean when you read it!)
I definitely want to read more by this author, and I’ll be going back to grab the first book in the series when I can. I’d recommend this to anyone who enjoys a clever murder mystery, has a good sense of humour… and isn’t weird about feet.
Lance Pomegranate is such a standout character—very quirky, and let’s just say the whole “feet” thing makes him unforgettable. (No spoilers, but you’ll know what I mean when you read it!)
I definitely want to read more by this author, and I’ll be going back to grab the first book in the series when I can. I’d recommend this to anyone who enjoys a clever murder mystery, has a good sense of humour… and isn’t weird about feet.
September 17, 2025
As always Lance is top notch!
I really enjoyed this case from Lance more than the 1st, maybe because I was always a fan of classic who do its and this had that feel through the whole story.
Lance is really intertwined with this one, as it feels he is the target and so this really plays on his mind while he is trying to solve this one. I love the fact that the author does drop the right amount of clues through the story, but not enough to give anything away. He keeps you on your toes the whole time and once again I was so wrong on my guesses on who was the culprit.
I love this series and can not wait for more adventures.
I really enjoyed this case from Lance more than the 1st, maybe because I was always a fan of classic who do its and this had that feel through the whole story.
Lance is really intertwined with this one, as it feels he is the target and so this really plays on his mind while he is trying to solve this one. I love the fact that the author does drop the right amount of clues through the story, but not enough to give anything away. He keeps you on your toes the whole time and once again I was so wrong on my guesses on who was the culprit.
I love this series and can not wait for more adventures.
June 29, 2025
The second instalment in Bendon’s weapon and the fruit series follows Australian PI, Lance Pomegranate, as he tries to uncover the mystery of email spammer turned serial killer before it’s too late! Lots of British humour and a diverse list of characters, Any Body Can Murder is an enjoyable read.
I struggled a little with remembering who everyone is as there’s a lot of characters (and there’s a little cheeky bit about feet that I wasn’t expecting 🤣) but it was a laugh and I’m grateful to have been given the opportunity to read this eARC.
I struggled a little with remembering who everyone is as there’s a lot of characters (and there’s a little cheeky bit about feet that I wasn’t expecting 🤣) but it was a laugh and I’m grateful to have been given the opportunity to read this eARC.
July 7, 2025
I was really excited to receive an advanced reader copy of this book.
A very clever storyline beginning with an email Lance Pomegranate receives, believing it to be a scam he sends a humorous response only to be contacted again.
It’s soon clear the mysterious email writer is planning a series of murders, it’s up to Lance to stop them.
The characters in this book are very likeable and I loved the way the story unfolded.
Full of suspense it keeps you guessing until the end, it’s also full of wit and humour, a highly enjoyable read.
#arcreader #lcbendon #bookstagram #mysterybooks
A very clever storyline beginning with an email Lance Pomegranate receives, believing it to be a scam he sends a humorous response only to be contacted again.
It’s soon clear the mysterious email writer is planning a series of murders, it’s up to Lance to stop them.
The characters in this book are very likeable and I loved the way the story unfolded.
Full of suspense it keeps you guessing until the end, it’s also full of wit and humour, a highly enjoyable read.
#arcreader #lcbendon #bookstagram #mysterybooks
June 28, 2025
I’ve never read a book so quickly. That was a one day - few hour read. It captures your attention from the very beginning and you won’t want to put it down. Intense but also very lighthearted and amusing
July 8, 2025
I was honoured to beta-read this book, and while some small changes have been made to the final, published version, I can vouch for the fact that this book is fantastic.
The first thing that gripped me was the humour/commentary mix. A relatable blend of 'don't we all hate scam emails?' and 'let's show how stupid they are'... that gently lends into a chaotic, murderous game being played. The 'scammer' being mocked turns out to be a sinister murderer playing ABC with our detective.
Which leads me to my second point... The cast in this story are so unique, fun and realistic you wonder if they're even made up. After all, who could invent an Australian private detective who doesn't wear shoes? L.E Bendon, apparently.
I was sucked in instantly by plot devices and cast. I stayed because I found it hard to stop scrolling and walk away. The setting, complete with attention to detail in maps and classic British humour to bring London to life, is perfectly executed and the tangling web of intrigue around this murder is irresistible.
Pick up a copy!
The first thing that gripped me was the humour/commentary mix. A relatable blend of 'don't we all hate scam emails?' and 'let's show how stupid they are'... that gently lends into a chaotic, murderous game being played. The 'scammer' being mocked turns out to be a sinister murderer playing ABC with our detective.
Which leads me to my second point... The cast in this story are so unique, fun and realistic you wonder if they're even made up. After all, who could invent an Australian private detective who doesn't wear shoes? L.E Bendon, apparently.
I was sucked in instantly by plot devices and cast. I stayed because I found it hard to stop scrolling and walk away. The setting, complete with attention to detail in maps and classic British humour to bring London to life, is perfectly executed and the tangling web of intrigue around this murder is irresistible.
Pick up a copy!
August 12, 2025
The Weapon and the Fruit - Any Body Can Murder by L E Bendon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lance Pomegranate is a bare footed private detective who works closely with the police, mainly DI Esi Owusu and DS Pawel Krol.
Lance starts getting what appear to be scam emails from a Malcolm Dombattu but they soon take a turn!
A great story, and I really enjoyed the quirky characters. You walk (bare-footed!) alongside Lance as he and the police try to solve the murders.
There is a previous murder mentioned which I'm assuming is the basis of book 1 and unfortunately I haven't read it. I think reading book 1 would help with these parts of the conversations but overall I don't feel I needed to have read it to enjoy this book!
I may go back and read book 1 but I'll definitely be on the lookout for when book 3 is released.
I received a gifted copy of this book. This is my honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lance Pomegranate is a bare footed private detective who works closely with the police, mainly DI Esi Owusu and DS Pawel Krol.
Lance starts getting what appear to be scam emails from a Malcolm Dombattu but they soon take a turn!
A great story, and I really enjoyed the quirky characters. You walk (bare-footed!) alongside Lance as he and the police try to solve the murders.
There is a previous murder mentioned which I'm assuming is the basis of book 1 and unfortunately I haven't read it. I think reading book 1 would help with these parts of the conversations but overall I don't feel I needed to have read it to enjoy this book!
I may go back and read book 1 but I'll definitely be on the lookout for when book 3 is released.
I received a gifted copy of this book. This is my honest review.
September 22, 2025
📆 single timeline.
👀 3rd person
🐢 -🐇 fast-paced
I didn't realise when I started reading this that it was the second book in a series, but I don't feel that it mattered at all and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it.
It feels wrong to say that a crime/murder mystery book made me laugh, but this one did. From the brilliant fake scam emails, to the rather delightful barefoot investigator, this was a book that really did have it all. The murders were both clever and as funny as murder can be (admittedly it never is in real life, it can be in fiction).
I wouldn't have ever managed to guess the killer, I'll be honest and say that I didn't have the smallest inkling at all. Clearly my future does not lie in the police force!
👀 3rd person
🐢 -🐇 fast-paced
I didn't realise when I started reading this that it was the second book in a series, but I don't feel that it mattered at all and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it.
It feels wrong to say that a crime/murder mystery book made me laugh, but this one did. From the brilliant fake scam emails, to the rather delightful barefoot investigator, this was a book that really did have it all. The murders were both clever and as funny as murder can be (admittedly it never is in real life, it can be in fiction).
I wouldn't have ever managed to guess the killer, I'll be honest and say that I didn't have the smallest inkling at all. Clearly my future does not lie in the police force!
June 19, 2025
An intriguing puzzle is handed to private detective Lance Pomegranate. At first it seems laughable, ridiculous even, but suddenly the bodies are piling up, and Lance and his colleagues in the police are sifting through the mounting evidence and speaking to witnesses to find the truth. One of them is a killer, but who? Lance battles against the clock to stop the killer, and in this he is aided - or possibly hindered - by superfan Bo, and Lance's love-hate relationship with journalist Ciara Gallen.
Add to the mix growing emotional involvement in more than one quarter, and you've got an absorbing mystery.
Book two is a great addition to this new series!
Add to the mix growing emotional involvement in more than one quarter, and you've got an absorbing mystery.
Book two is a great addition to this new series!
July 8, 2025
The Weapon and The Fruit: Any Body Can Murder is the first book I read by L.E. Bendon and I couldn’t put it down. This is a story about a detective that is investigating a series of murders that is intriguing and interesting. I loved how I got multiple point of views and see how Lance Pomegranate was able to plug the clues in and solve the case of ABC murders. I love the uniqueness of the characters and the way the characters interacted with each other. I really enjoyed this crime detective mystery and can’t wait to read more.
I voluntarily leave an honest review of this gifted advance readers copy.
I voluntarily leave an honest review of this gifted advance readers copy.
June 21, 2025
I was lucky to read the ARC of this book and now desperate to read the first book in the series.
The story was gripping, humorous and full of red herrings. It's was cleverly written with use of email and phone conversations to add to the plot line. These can often become tedious but not in this novel. I love reading stories based in places I know, as it helps me visualise where the characters are and it was clear that the author really knows their way around the city.
Can't wait for the next installment.
The story was gripping, humorous and full of red herrings. It's was cleverly written with use of email and phone conversations to add to the plot line. These can often become tedious but not in this novel. I love reading stories based in places I know, as it helps me visualise where the characters are and it was clear that the author really knows their way around the city.
Can't wait for the next installment.
read-2025
July 4, 2025I received an advanced reader copy of this book. Unfortunately, this was a DNF for me.
August 28, 2025
Full of word plays and red herrings as behooves a classic whodunnit.
Duly eccentric private detective Lance Pomegranate is contacted by a murderer. At first, the killer appears to be copying Christie’s ABC Murders, but soon the correspondence evolves into a cat-and-mouse play involving Pomegranate’s nearest and dearest.
Pomegranate is indeed Poirot-esquely pompous and preachy, but instead of trimming a moustache like Poirot, Pomegranate’s quirks are refusing to wear shoes and an obsession with feet in general. As cringe as his foot fetish is, it does make a refreshing change from the disillusioned and alcoholic detective trope. Unfortunately, Pomegranate’s barefoot habit is allowed a bit too much space, rather taking away from the story than contributing to it.
The story is told in straight-forward prose and through the eyes of a motley cast of characters. Unusual for the genre is the insightful humor and great tenderness with which the leading characters are drawn. The cherry on top are the characters’ fanciful names and some truly brilliant turns of phrase. “Extinguished sentiments and worn rear guards”, is how I will be signing all my correspondence hereinafter.
Overall a very enjoyable read that kept me guessing at the murderer’s identity until the very end.
Duly eccentric private detective Lance Pomegranate is contacted by a murderer. At first, the killer appears to be copying Christie’s ABC Murders, but soon the correspondence evolves into a cat-and-mouse play involving Pomegranate’s nearest and dearest.
Pomegranate is indeed Poirot-esquely pompous and preachy, but instead of trimming a moustache like Poirot, Pomegranate’s quirks are refusing to wear shoes and an obsession with feet in general. As cringe as his foot fetish is, it does make a refreshing change from the disillusioned and alcoholic detective trope. Unfortunately, Pomegranate’s barefoot habit is allowed a bit too much space, rather taking away from the story than contributing to it.
The story is told in straight-forward prose and through the eyes of a motley cast of characters. Unusual for the genre is the insightful humor and great tenderness with which the leading characters are drawn. The cherry on top are the characters’ fanciful names and some truly brilliant turns of phrase. “Extinguished sentiments and worn rear guards”, is how I will be signing all my correspondence hereinafter.
Overall a very enjoyable read that kept me guessing at the murderer’s identity until the very end.
February 1, 2026
~ 4.5/5
I loved the first Lance Pomegranate book when I read it months ago, and I loved this one even more. The stakes were higher than ever, but so was the humor. From the very beginning, I had a smile on my face that never really faded (other than at some gruesome moments). This book made me feel a deeper connection to all the characters, even those that I didn't like in the first one (*Cough, Ciara), and I was obsessed with the friendship between Lance, Esi, and Pawel (my new golden trio). If you thought the first book was exciting, this one will blow you away. After all, more murders equal a truly unhinged opponent, and watching Lance square off against them was a lot of fun. My favorite parts in this book, though, were not the high-intensity investigations or confrontations; it's the cozy vibes the author threaded throughout the book that I continue to think about, long after the killer has been identified.
I loved the first Lance Pomegranate book when I read it months ago, and I loved this one even more. The stakes were higher than ever, but so was the humor. From the very beginning, I had a smile on my face that never really faded (other than at some gruesome moments). This book made me feel a deeper connection to all the characters, even those that I didn't like in the first one (*Cough, Ciara), and I was obsessed with the friendship between Lance, Esi, and Pawel (my new golden trio). If you thought the first book was exciting, this one will blow you away. After all, more murders equal a truly unhinged opponent, and watching Lance square off against them was a lot of fun. My favorite parts in this book, though, were not the high-intensity investigations or confrontations; it's the cozy vibes the author threaded throughout the book that I continue to think about, long after the killer has been identified.
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