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Inspectors Hannasyde & Hemingway #4
A Blunt Instrument
When Ernest Fletcher is found bludgeoned to death in his study, everyone is shocked and mystified: Ernest was well liked and respected, so who would want to kill him?
Enter Superintendent Hannasyde who, with consummate skill, begins to uncover the complexities of Fletcher's life. It seems the real Fletcher was far from the gentleman he pretended to be. There is, in fact, no shortage of people who wanted him dead.
And then the killer struck again...
Enter Superintendent Hannasyde who, with consummate skill, begins to uncover the complexities of Fletcher's life. It seems the real Fletcher was far from the gentleman he pretended to be. There is, in fact, no shortage of people who wanted him dead.
And then the killer struck again...
304 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1938
229 people are currently reading
1512 people want to read
About the author
Georgette Heyer
252 books5,511 followersGeorgette Heyer was a prolific historical romance and detective fiction novelist. Her writing career began in 1921, when she turned a story for her younger brother into the novel The Black Moth.
In 1925 she married George Ronald Rougier, a mining engineer. Rougier later became a barrister and he often provided basic plot outlines for her thrillers. Beginning in 1932, Heyer released one romance novel and one thriller each year.
Heyer was an intensely private person who remained a best selling author all her life without the aid of publicity. She made no appearances, never gave an interview and only answered fan letters herself if they made an interesting historical point. She wrote one novel using the pseudonym Stella Martin.
Her Georgian and Regencies romances were inspired by Jane Austen. While some critics thought her novels were too detailed, others considered the level of detail to be Heyer's greatest asset.
Heyer remains a popular and much-loved author, known for essentially establishing the historical romance genre and its subgenre Regency romance.
In 1925 she married George Ronald Rougier, a mining engineer. Rougier later became a barrister and he often provided basic plot outlines for her thrillers. Beginning in 1932, Heyer released one romance novel and one thriller each year.
Heyer was an intensely private person who remained a best selling author all her life without the aid of publicity. She made no appearances, never gave an interview and only answered fan letters herself if they made an interesting historical point. She wrote one novel using the pseudonym Stella Martin.
Her Georgian and Regencies romances were inspired by Jane Austen. While some critics thought her novels were too detailed, others considered the level of detail to be Heyer's greatest asset.
Heyer remains a popular and much-loved author, known for essentially establishing the historical romance genre and its subgenre Regency romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 386 reviews
September 3, 2019
2.75 stars for this tedious Georgette Heyer mystery, set in England in the 1930s. (I've only read a couple of Heyer's contemporary mysteries, but I think it's safe to say I prefer her historical romance/comedy of manners novels.)
Ernest Fletcher, a wealthy, suave individual, has been bludgeoned to death in his study. A policeman, PC Glass, sees his body at 10:05 pm. Other individuals saw Fletcher alive at 10 pm. Who killed Fletcher in that 5 minute period, and how? The eponymous blunt instrument with which he was killed is nowhere to be found.
The suspects /main characters include:
☞ Helen North, a lovely if rather hen-witted married woman whose IOUs Fletcher had bought up (he was using them to try to blackmail her into an affair)
☞ John North, her (possibly?) jealous if rather estranged husband
☞ Neville Fletcher, the deceased's man's heir
☞ Ernest Fletcher's suspicious-acting stockbroker
And a few others!
I'm a longtime fan of Heyer's Regency-era novels, which tend to be a delightful mix of romance and comedy of manners, with lots of witty dialogue. If I had started my Heyer experience with this mystery novel, though, I might have quit right there. The witty dialogue was in rather short supply, with Neville supplying most of the fun. Every time he came into the room I perked up and paid attention. Helen's sister Sally, an author of improbable mystery novels, gave Neville back all the attitude he was dishing out and then some, although I found her use of a monocle rather distracting. I'm still trying to figure out if that was really a widespread thing for smart young ladies in the 30's.
Helen and John, with all their marital troubles and secrets, were a pretty lame pair, although you could sense the passion still underlying their hurt feelings and fears. Superintendent Hannacyde and Sergeant Hemingway, who were in charge of the investigation of the case, seemed very bland, although the Sergeant had a few funny lines.
But my least favorite character was the policeman, Glass, who responded to pretty much everything with a condemnatory Bible quote.
Between the dreary Glass, the constant harping on the "impossible" timeline for the murder, and a fairly rote mystery, there was nothing in this story to motivate me to read any more of Heyer's contemporary (at the time) mysteries. I have to admit that the reveal at the end caught me by surprise, although perhaps it shouldn't have. I think I just wasn't giving the mystery my full attention by that time. <---- That's my story, and I'm sticking to it. Just like I'm pretty much sticking to Heyer's historical novels from here on out.
Ernest Fletcher, a wealthy, suave individual, has been bludgeoned to death in his study. A policeman, PC Glass, sees his body at 10:05 pm. Other individuals saw Fletcher alive at 10 pm. Who killed Fletcher in that 5 minute period, and how? The eponymous blunt instrument with which he was killed is nowhere to be found.
The suspects /main characters include:
☞ Helen North, a lovely if rather hen-witted married woman whose IOUs Fletcher had bought up (he was using them to try to blackmail her into an affair)
☞ John North, her (possibly?) jealous if rather estranged husband
☞ Neville Fletcher, the deceased's man's heir
☞ Ernest Fletcher's suspicious-acting stockbroker
And a few others!
I'm a longtime fan of Heyer's Regency-era novels, which tend to be a delightful mix of romance and comedy of manners, with lots of witty dialogue. If I had started my Heyer experience with this mystery novel, though, I might have quit right there. The witty dialogue was in rather short supply, with Neville supplying most of the fun. Every time he came into the room I perked up and paid attention. Helen's sister Sally, an author of improbable mystery novels, gave Neville back all the attitude he was dishing out and then some, although I found her use of a monocle rather distracting. I'm still trying to figure out if that was really a widespread thing for smart young ladies in the 30's.
Helen and John, with all their marital troubles and secrets, were a pretty lame pair, although you could sense the passion still underlying their hurt feelings and fears. Superintendent Hannacyde and Sergeant Hemingway, who were in charge of the investigation of the case, seemed very bland, although the Sergeant had a few funny lines.
But my least favorite character was the policeman, Glass, who responded to pretty much everything with a condemnatory Bible quote.
"Forsake the foolish and live! Woe to them that are wise in their own eyes! Know that judgments are prepared for the scorners, and stripes for the backs of fools!"It got old fast, and since Glass is involved in the ongoing investigation, there's no getting away from his grim pronouncements. The only bright spot was when the Sergeant and Neville took to studying the Bible so they could throw some scriptural arguments back at him.
Between the dreary Glass, the constant harping on the "impossible" timeline for the murder, and a fairly rote mystery, there was nothing in this story to motivate me to read any more of Heyer's contemporary (at the time) mysteries. I have to admit that the reveal at the end caught me by surprise, although perhaps it shouldn't have. I think I just wasn't giving the mystery my full attention by that time. <---- That's my story, and I'm sticking to it. Just like I'm pretty much sticking to Heyer's historical novels from here on out.
August 5, 2021
I loved Neville and Sally! I lived for the moments when they would appear in a scene together. Neville was such a sly fox. One of my favourite of Georgette Heyer's mysteries: characterization and great dialogue will win me over every time!
May 24, 2019
Normally I'm all in favour of the retro paperback covers but this one
is hideous.
While there is a lot to like about this book, it does have a few flaws. Any time my favourite Watson (Hemingway) came on to the page the whole book sparkled with life & energy & GH gave him some of the books wittiest lines. The remaining funny lines went to Neville & I found his & Hemingway's exchanges with the gloomily religious Corporal Glass hilarious.
But Helen is one of the most selfish, shallow, stupid & all round annoying characters GH ever wrote. Half way through
& Sally seems very affected. A monocle & a cigarette holder - really? She must have been a sight to behold!
Although every era has it's fashion tragedies
The anti-semitism in this one bothered me more than the more famous example in The Grand Sophy. I still want to read uncensored though.
The murder solution was original (especially when you consider how long ago this book was written!) but spoilt a bit by a lack of suspects - especially when you know- this is a spoiler for all Heyer detective stories, so be careful about opening it -
I read Heyer mysteries more for the characters, wit & view of early 20th century life among the middle class & landed gentry. & of course Hemingway!
is hideous.While there is a lot to like about this book, it does have a few flaws. Any time my favourite Watson (Hemingway) came on to the page the whole book sparkled with life & energy & GH gave him some of the books wittiest lines. The remaining funny lines went to Neville & I found his & Hemingway's exchanges with the gloomily religious Corporal Glass hilarious.
But Helen is one of the most selfish, shallow, stupid & all round annoying characters GH ever wrote. Half way through
& Sally seems very affected. A monocle & a cigarette holder - really? She must have been a sight to behold!
Although every era has it's fashion tragedies
The anti-semitism in this one bothered me more than the more famous example in The Grand Sophy. I still want to read uncensored though.
The murder solution was original (especially when you consider how long ago this book was written!) but spoilt a bit by a lack of suspects - especially when you know- this is a spoiler for all Heyer detective stories, so be careful about opening it -
I read Heyer mysteries more for the characters, wit & view of early 20th century life among the middle class & landed gentry. & of course Hemingway!
April 10, 2017
3.5 to be precise
Comparing to her other mysteries (Why Shoot a Butler?, They Found Him Dead, No Wind of Blame and Penhallow), this one was the least favorite. It has a bit of a thrill and twist. However, you can guess who is the culprit and the motive after finishing two-thirds of the story. I mean it was clear to the point that I doubted it and thought it was a narrative trick but it wasn't. I don't know, maybe that was her way of misleading the reader, making the murderer too obvious to be true. Other than that it was fine. Some of the characters were getting on my nerve (Officer Glass and Helen North), and it has a bit of a humor.
Comparing to her other mysteries (Why Shoot a Butler?, They Found Him Dead, No Wind of Blame and Penhallow), this one was the least favorite. It has a bit of a thrill and twist. However, you can guess who is the culprit and the motive after finishing two-thirds of the story. I mean it was clear to the point that I doubted it and thought it was a narrative trick but it wasn't. I don't know, maybe that was her way of misleading the reader, making the murderer too obvious to be true. Other than that it was fine. Some of the characters were getting on my nerve (Officer Glass and Helen North), and it has a bit of a humor.
October 25, 2023
** SPOILER ALERT **
What a lark! A Blunt Instrument has to be one of the most droll and entertaining of Heyer's mysteries. I loved it from beginning to end, and figured out whodunnit almost immediately. Ordinarily, this would make me think less of Heyer's writing abilities, but in this case, her hiding the murderer in plain sight actually causes the reader to second guess themselves throughout the 309 hilarious pages.
Entertaining, funny and filled with period charm and cant-speak, A Blunt Instrument isn't to be missed for lovers of the golden age murder mystery.
What a lark! A Blunt Instrument has to be one of the most droll and entertaining of Heyer's mysteries. I loved it from beginning to end, and figured out whodunnit almost immediately. Ordinarily, this would make me think less of Heyer's writing abilities, but in this case, her hiding the murderer in plain sight actually causes the reader to second guess themselves throughout the 309 hilarious pages.
Entertaining, funny and filled with period charm and cant-speak, A Blunt Instrument isn't to be missed for lovers of the golden age murder mystery.
February 11, 2019
It is an nice English cozy mystery where almost all the characters are suspects. It is the forth from Inspectors Hannayside serie. I will continue with the other stories.
Thank you Netgalley for this book.
Thank you Netgalley for this book.
October 15, 2022
I love Heyer but this is one of my least favourite of her detective books. The tiresome religious maniac of a policeman gets wearying very fast with his apocalyptic quotations and dour outlook where everything is sinful and on the path to hell... The culprit seems obvious from the start and even Heyer's trademark wit starts to feel brittle and shallow rather than frivolous and sparkling. I'd still recommend her like a shot - just not this book.
March 13, 2019
I came to the work of Georgette Heyer rather recently and was taken by her sparkling and fun regency romances, but I pursued her books into other historical eras and, mostly lately, into other genres such as her murder mysteries. I find that they have the same sparkling dialogue and touch of madcap humor that her regencies possess which is a further delight.
Most of her mysteries take place post-WWI at an English country house and feature either Superintendent Hannasyde or Hemingway as the Scotland Yard detective sent to solve the case. A Blunt Instrument is no exception. It is the fourth and last of the Hannasyde books with Hemingway acting as his sergeant.
A Blunt Instrument highlights a colorful circle of characters from laconic and witty Neville, the deceased's nephew who stands to inherit to the witless and often lachrymose neighbor, Mrs. Helen North who is the deceased's most recent flirtation. Poor Hannasyde and Hemingway are saddled with a Jeremiah like Bible-quoting local constable and several would-be suspects who have their own reasons for throwing shade on the investigation of a man who was supposedly too well-liked to have been a victim.
I enjoyed this one for its historical, classical feel. It was a crime in a time before our later crime-scene tech advancements so the investigation work was tramping around going at witnesses and shifting for hints in their statements. In this one, the timeline was the sticking point because witness statements were contradictory. Though, that said, as a reader, I doubt I was meant to believe Helen's statements (yes, she had three, at least, by the end).
Helen is too obvious for words and I had the strongest urge to pitch a bucket of ice water at her every time she showed up in a scene. However, she does turn out to be a necessary figure in the story. She loves her husband, but finds a solid, hardworking man who doesn't go in for gambling or lots of cocktail parties not enough so gets into trouble to stir him up and gets into an intrigue to make him act jealous. John chooses to keep his peace and wait her out because he actually loves her inspite of her antics. He is even willing to frame himself to protect her. Her sister, Sally, is much more level-headed and gets the lamentable task of verbally shaking her into some sense, but Sally does enjoy being right in the thick of a murder investigation because she writes mysteries. I had a good time whenever Neville appeared in a scene. He leads people on a merry chase, but he's never really obstructive and will tell the truth unlike Helen and her husband. But, the character who is the real corker is Constable Glass. His religion runs to the hell and brimstone sort and he speaks entirely in Biblical aphorisms and not the helpful sort. He drove everyone to Bedlam had had the sergeant, Neville, and Sally scrambling for their own Biblical quotes to shut him up. I know he will annoy the Dickens out of some, but he was a buffoon and I could only laugh most of the time.
I figured this one out before the big reveal and even got the motive even though the author did her level best to distract with all the characters and the nonsense going on. I confess that it was because of reading other mysteries that I cottoned to the truth and not because I'm all that brilliant.
All and all, I'm delighted that Sourcebooks is reprinting these old Heyer detective stories for a new generation to discover them and enjoy the antics and wit of her work. Those who enjoy old-style country house mysteries will be the target audience for this books/series.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark via Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Most of her mysteries take place post-WWI at an English country house and feature either Superintendent Hannasyde or Hemingway as the Scotland Yard detective sent to solve the case. A Blunt Instrument is no exception. It is the fourth and last of the Hannasyde books with Hemingway acting as his sergeant.
A Blunt Instrument highlights a colorful circle of characters from laconic and witty Neville, the deceased's nephew who stands to inherit to the witless and often lachrymose neighbor, Mrs. Helen North who is the deceased's most recent flirtation. Poor Hannasyde and Hemingway are saddled with a Jeremiah like Bible-quoting local constable and several would-be suspects who have their own reasons for throwing shade on the investigation of a man who was supposedly too well-liked to have been a victim.
I enjoyed this one for its historical, classical feel. It was a crime in a time before our later crime-scene tech advancements so the investigation work was tramping around going at witnesses and shifting for hints in their statements. In this one, the timeline was the sticking point because witness statements were contradictory. Though, that said, as a reader, I doubt I was meant to believe Helen's statements (yes, she had three, at least, by the end).
Helen is too obvious for words and I had the strongest urge to pitch a bucket of ice water at her every time she showed up in a scene. However, she does turn out to be a necessary figure in the story. She loves her husband, but finds a solid, hardworking man who doesn't go in for gambling or lots of cocktail parties not enough so gets into trouble to stir him up and gets into an intrigue to make him act jealous. John chooses to keep his peace and wait her out because he actually loves her inspite of her antics. He is even willing to frame himself to protect her. Her sister, Sally, is much more level-headed and gets the lamentable task of verbally shaking her into some sense, but Sally does enjoy being right in the thick of a murder investigation because she writes mysteries. I had a good time whenever Neville appeared in a scene. He leads people on a merry chase, but he's never really obstructive and will tell the truth unlike Helen and her husband. But, the character who is the real corker is Constable Glass. His religion runs to the hell and brimstone sort and he speaks entirely in Biblical aphorisms and not the helpful sort. He drove everyone to Bedlam had had the sergeant, Neville, and Sally scrambling for their own Biblical quotes to shut him up. I know he will annoy the Dickens out of some, but he was a buffoon and I could only laugh most of the time.
I figured this one out before the big reveal and even got the motive even though the author did her level best to distract with all the characters and the nonsense going on. I confess that it was because of reading other mysteries that I cottoned to the truth and not because I'm all that brilliant.
All and all, I'm delighted that Sourcebooks is reprinting these old Heyer detective stories for a new generation to discover them and enjoy the antics and wit of her work. Those who enjoy old-style country house mysteries will be the target audience for this books/series.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark via Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 9, 2018
It flickers guiltily through my conscience that if any other person had written this book, I would have given it 3 stars. But it is Heyer and I delight in anything she writes like a doting parent delights in her children's drawings. Even the weaker ones. So you'll just have to accept this as a disclaimer.
The mystery of A Blunt Instrument was sadly predictable and often involves people sitting around discussing clues that have already been hashed out ad nauseam. There are some definite tones of sexism that I like to think are in fun but might not have been. And if you're familiar with Heyer's character archetypes, the characters fall into their somewhat predictable spheres.
And yet what fun spheres they are! Honestly, I read this book for the characters. The King James quoting constable kept me laughing out loud and I can't get over Heyer's daring in giving the mystery writing sister a monocle. What could be less romantic? I love the nephew with his crazy plans to keep his aunt occupied and the estranged couple each wrapped in their own private drama.
So I give this book 4 stars because it was fun and it was written by her. Don't go in expecting much.
The mystery of A Blunt Instrument was sadly predictable and often involves people sitting around discussing clues that have already been hashed out ad nauseam. There are some definite tones of sexism that I like to think are in fun but might not have been. And if you're familiar with Heyer's character archetypes, the characters fall into their somewhat predictable spheres.
And yet what fun spheres they are! Honestly, I read this book for the characters. The King James quoting constable kept me laughing out loud and I can't get over Heyer's daring in giving the mystery writing sister a monocle. What could be less romantic? I love the nephew with his crazy plans to keep his aunt occupied and the estranged couple each wrapped in their own private drama.
So I give this book 4 stars because it was fun and it was written by her. Don't go in expecting much.
November 30, 2018
A delightful cozy mystery in the vein of Agatha Christie. It's not really surprising, but due to Heyer's wonderful writing it provides hours of good fun, filled with her trademark bickering and interesting characters. A nice, comfortable read, perfect if you're looking for a good old-fashioned mystery!
*I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
*I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
March 20, 2015
Another Heyer Mystery completed!
In this one the police forces tackle the strange puzzle of the "Perfect Gentleman" who has been murdered in a most messy way possible, in less than five minutes. Not only that, they cannot find the implement used. So many people could have done it and yet, no one can picture any of them actually putting their hands to the task.
The case becomes further muddled by someone not telling the truth by just a few details.. leaving everyone involved on eggshells. Everyone except Neville, who the police secretly believe to be a half-wit bent on wasting their time. One thing he definitely does is try their patience and give everyone a laugh.
This felt a bit like Hawaii Five-O, Georgette Heyer style. Particularly the way the story progressed. I'm pretty sure I'll revisit this Heyer, it didn't get a five because I still think Why Shoot a Butler and The Unfinished Clue was better. In this one the characters didn't make me take sides like most mysteries, but that's fine since the end will surprise most everyone.
I did suspect the murderer at one point, but then decided that it was impossible and picked another impossible suspect. So I second guessed myself the whole way through concluding that I didn't know who it was, till the grand finale.
One police man, Officer Glass loved to quote scriptures at everyone. He was rather funny when he applied a scripture to someone accurately, but tiresome when he got it wrong. All in all he was a bit over the top. But he didn't spoil the story any and he didn't preach at everyone too much, just every time he opened his mouth.
PG The murder is rather gruesome, but we aren't given a bunch of nasty details. The victim was a lady's man and there is a fair bit of smoking.
In this one the police forces tackle the strange puzzle of the "Perfect Gentleman" who has been murdered in a most messy way possible, in less than five minutes. Not only that, they cannot find the implement used. So many people could have done it and yet, no one can picture any of them actually putting their hands to the task.
The case becomes further muddled by someone not telling the truth by just a few details.. leaving everyone involved on eggshells. Everyone except Neville, who the police secretly believe to be a half-wit bent on wasting their time. One thing he definitely does is try their patience and give everyone a laugh.
This felt a bit like Hawaii Five-O, Georgette Heyer style. Particularly the way the story progressed. I'm pretty sure I'll revisit this Heyer, it didn't get a five because I still think Why Shoot a Butler and The Unfinished Clue was better. In this one the characters didn't make me take sides like most mysteries, but that's fine since the end will surprise most everyone.
I did suspect the murderer at one point, but then decided that it was impossible and picked another impossible suspect. So I second guessed myself the whole way through concluding that I didn't know who it was, till the grand finale.
One police man, Officer Glass loved to quote scriptures at everyone. He was rather funny when he applied a scripture to someone accurately, but tiresome when he got it wrong. All in all he was a bit over the top. But he didn't spoil the story any and he didn't preach at everyone too much, just every time he opened his mouth.
PG The murder is rather gruesome, but we aren't given a bunch of nasty details. The victim was a lady's man and there is a fair bit of smoking.
May 5, 2016
This book is classic Heyer - madcap characters, clever plot and hilariously droll dialogue.
The problem with solving this murder is that, as Sergeant Hemingway remarks more than once, if all the witnesses are telling the truth, then there can't have been a murder. And yet there is the body of Ernest Fletcher with a bashed in head, so clearly there has been a murder.
So obviously that means someone is lying. And yet, all are, in fact, telling the truth! Of course, the truth of the matter will dawn upon you, the reader, as it does upon Superintendent Hannasyde.
I only wish that Ms. Heyer had written more mysteries!
The problem with solving this murder is that, as Sergeant Hemingway remarks more than once, if all the witnesses are telling the truth, then there can't have been a murder. And yet there is the body of Ernest Fletcher with a bashed in head, so clearly there has been a murder.
So obviously that means someone is lying. And yet, all are, in fact, telling the truth! Of course, the truth of the matter will dawn upon you, the reader, as it does upon Superintendent Hannasyde.
I only wish that Ms. Heyer had written more mysteries!
October 4, 2022
10/2022: probably last time I’ll reread this one - I don’t hate it, just enjoy her other mysteries more. The bible-spouting constable is really annoying. As always with Heyer, some quirky, witty Bright Young Things among the characters, but they can grate on my nerves after a bit. I will skim to the end to refresh my memory on the wrap up, I know whodunnit, think I remember the motive, we’ll see… Reread for Reading the Detectives group.
2/6/2016: 3 stars, I've read more Heyer mysteries since my first reading of this book and they were better. Re-read this with Georgette Heyer fans reading group; consensus so far seems to be nobody's favorite Heyer mystery. It has the witty, dry British humor and dialogue; interesting, quirky characters and fair-play puzzle to unravel, but for me, a little too much emphasis on the timing of the murder and who could be the murderer, it drags on. A few fellow readers' comments and observations by Sgt. Hemingway, Supt. Hannasyde's snarky, irrepressible subordinate, made the pieces click into place for me around the end of chapter eight and I remembered/guessed who the murderer was; well done and fair enough, but I couldn't help feeling, did I want to bother reading the rest or just skip ahead? I did read the rest of the book just to enjoy Hemingway's wisecracks and the inane and outrageous ramblings of Neville Fletcher, nephew of the deceased and one of the chief suspects for a time.
6/20/2010: 4 stars; I tried this Heyer last year and couldn't get into it, but after starting with her first mystery and reading them in order, I've gotten a real taste for her style and am hooked! I actually read this one a couple months ago, but I remember well her characters and the humorous dialogue - her trademarks! The mystery for me is often secondary with my favorite Golden Age mystery writers; it's the atmosphere and characters I relish, and with Heyer especially, her sharp humor and witty dialogue. She has so much fun with her quirky characters, just like in her Regencies - she's one of my favorite writers in any genre!
British Golden Age mysteries are one my favorite genres, now I begin to wonder how well some of my favorites would hold up to re-reading! Ah well, any time spent reading Heyer, whether her mysteries or romances, is time well spent, so I enjoyed this one and look forward to whichever of her novels the group decides to read in March.
2/6/2016: 3 stars, I've read more Heyer mysteries since my first reading of this book and they were better. Re-read this with Georgette Heyer fans reading group; consensus so far seems to be nobody's favorite Heyer mystery. It has the witty, dry British humor and dialogue; interesting, quirky characters and fair-play puzzle to unravel, but for me, a little too much emphasis on the timing of the murder and who could be the murderer, it drags on. A few fellow readers' comments and observations by Sgt. Hemingway, Supt. Hannasyde's snarky, irrepressible subordinate, made the pieces click into place for me around the end of chapter eight and I remembered/guessed who the murderer was; well done and fair enough, but I couldn't help feeling, did I want to bother reading the rest or just skip ahead? I did read the rest of the book just to enjoy Hemingway's wisecracks and the inane and outrageous ramblings of Neville Fletcher, nephew of the deceased and one of the chief suspects for a time.
6/20/2010: 4 stars; I tried this Heyer last year and couldn't get into it, but after starting with her first mystery and reading them in order, I've gotten a real taste for her style and am hooked! I actually read this one a couple months ago, but I remember well her characters and the humorous dialogue - her trademarks! The mystery for me is often secondary with my favorite Golden Age mystery writers; it's the atmosphere and characters I relish, and with Heyer especially, her sharp humor and witty dialogue. She has so much fun with her quirky characters, just like in her Regencies - she's one of my favorite writers in any genre!
British Golden Age mysteries are one my favorite genres, now I begin to wonder how well some of my favorites would hold up to re-reading! Ah well, any time spent reading Heyer, whether her mysteries or romances, is time well spent, so I enjoyed this one and look forward to whichever of her novels the group decides to read in March.
December 7, 2016
Reading this Heyer mystery was to be transported into one of those fun 30's-era mystery movies replete with a cast of quirky characters speaking rapid fire dialogue, with the shadow of guilt passing from one suspect to another. Filled with some perceptive and funny lines, this is the best of the Inspector Hannasyde stories.
In this mystery, the amateurs do not take over the investigation but serve as suspects who continue to generate red herrings. They include Neville, the murdered man's nephew who is the heir. The blonde twit Helen who could be one of his many lady friends and her estranged husband. With a touch of witty self-depracation, Helen's sister Sally -- who eccentrically sports a monocle -- is a critically acclaimed mystery writer lauded for her complex plots. There are even a couple of possible "business" associates thrown into the mix who may or may not be the mystery man the police are searching for.
The thoughtful Inspector Hannasyde who has to puzzle through the many bits of often contradictory information is once again aided by his sidekick, the wise-cracking Sergeant Hemingway slinging slang. The new addition to this pair of detectives is the ponderous Constable Glass who speaks almost exclusively in paraphrases of Biblical verses delivered in very solemn tones.
Heyer's mysteries are mostly compared to Agatha Christie; but Heyer often infuses her stories with more wit and humor. This story, in particular, more resembled the style of Philip MacDonald.
In this mystery, the amateurs do not take over the investigation but serve as suspects who continue to generate red herrings. They include Neville, the murdered man's nephew who is the heir. The blonde twit Helen who could be one of his many lady friends and her estranged husband. With a touch of witty self-depracation, Helen's sister Sally -- who eccentrically sports a monocle -- is a critically acclaimed mystery writer lauded for her complex plots. There are even a couple of possible "business" associates thrown into the mix who may or may not be the mystery man the police are searching for.
The thoughtful Inspector Hannasyde who has to puzzle through the many bits of often contradictory information is once again aided by his sidekick, the wise-cracking Sergeant Hemingway slinging slang. The new addition to this pair of detectives is the ponderous Constable Glass who speaks almost exclusively in paraphrases of Biblical verses delivered in very solemn tones.
Heyer's mysteries are mostly compared to Agatha Christie; but Heyer often infuses her stories with more wit and humor. This story, in particular, more resembled the style of Philip MacDonald.
May 31, 2024
I love Georgette Heyer’s mystery’s. They remind me so much of Agatha Christie in the best way. I’m always surprised of who the killer is in her books. She weaves them so well that they’re hard to guess. I also love the snarky characters that she puts into her stories. I always end up chuckling over something someone says. There was one character in this book that everyone was frustrated with and gave him a hard time. These are some of my favorite books.
August 17, 2025
Quand même cool (j'aime que les personnages de Georgette soient très détestables), mais j'ai deviné la solution très tôt dans le roman et c'est sûr que je préfère largement ses romances historiques screwball à ses romans policiers (sauf Footsteps in the Dark, qui est mon pref).
February 7, 2016
P.C. Ichabod Glass discovers the body of the wealthy Ernest Fletcher lying over his desk with his head bashed in with a blunt instrument. Who did it, when, what/where is the murder weapon are the questions Inspector Hannasyde must answer. In order to do his job he has to put up with Ichabod's moralizing and a bunch of suspects who aren't telling the truth. Was it the heir in need of money? A lovely lady who wanted her IOU's back or her husband seeking revenge? What about her sister, a crime novelist, plotting out a new book? Could it be the man Fletcher hired to make shady business deals on his behalf or someone else known to the police?
This is my 4th Georgette Heyer contemporary (1930s) mystery I've read and the best one so far. I couldn't put it down until I was done. I just could not figure out who did it. I had a guess early on and another guess fleetingly crossed my mind but was dismissed because I just couldn't think it through. I did get it once the biggest clue was planted towards the end so I wasn't entirely surprised by the reveal. The writing is much better than in other mysteries but not as high quality as her Regencies. I especially liked the dialogue between Hannysmede and Hemingway but most especially when Neville Fletcher was around annoying the Scripture-quoting Glass with counter quotes. The one big thing I didn't like was in the beginning there were lots of Anti-Semitic comments about a character. I get that people thought that way but there could have been other ways for her to describe a character without using the word Jewish in front of the adjectives.
The characters are more likable than in previous Heyer mysteries I've read and more memorable. My favorite character is Neville, Ernie Fletcher's nephew. Neville reminded me of a P.G. Wodehouse character like Bertie Wooster. Neville acts like he's not very bright and cares for nothing. He uses his brain more than he wants to admit and has a good heart. I love how he was able to put his brain to good use to enter into a sort of verbal sparring match with the Bible-quoting Glass. I also really liked Sally, the crime novelist. Like Neville she pretends she doesn't care about anything but her novels but she actually cares quite a lot for her sister and tries all she can to help. Hannasyde and Hemingway were also fun characters. I liked Hannasyde's patience and intelligence but I liked him best when he was complaining about Ichabod with Hemingway. The two of them pair well together. I've met Hemingway before but he wasn't very memorable and I suspect I won't remember him again if I read another mystery. I liked Glass at first because he was a comical figure but the more moralizing he did the less I liked him, especially when he moralized over his superiors. My least favorite character was Helen. She was just TOO TOO stupid. I wanted to slap her. Her husband John wasn't much better.
This was a fun, light mystery. Thank you to Georgette Heyer and her husband, Ronald Rougier for coming up with an engaging mystery and fun characters.
This is my 4th Georgette Heyer contemporary (1930s) mystery I've read and the best one so far. I couldn't put it down until I was done. I just could not figure out who did it. I had a guess early on and another guess fleetingly crossed my mind but was dismissed because I just couldn't think it through. I did get it once the biggest clue was planted towards the end so I wasn't entirely surprised by the reveal. The writing is much better than in other mysteries but not as high quality as her Regencies. I especially liked the dialogue between Hannysmede and Hemingway but most especially when Neville Fletcher was around annoying the Scripture-quoting Glass with counter quotes. The one big thing I didn't like was in the beginning there were lots of Anti-Semitic comments about a character. I get that people thought that way but there could have been other ways for her to describe a character without using the word Jewish in front of the adjectives.
The characters are more likable than in previous Heyer mysteries I've read and more memorable. My favorite character is Neville, Ernie Fletcher's nephew. Neville reminded me of a P.G. Wodehouse character like Bertie Wooster. Neville acts like he's not very bright and cares for nothing. He uses his brain more than he wants to admit and has a good heart. I love how he was able to put his brain to good use to enter into a sort of verbal sparring match with the Bible-quoting Glass. I also really liked Sally, the crime novelist. Like Neville she pretends she doesn't care about anything but her novels but she actually cares quite a lot for her sister and tries all she can to help. Hannasyde and Hemingway were also fun characters. I liked Hannasyde's patience and intelligence but I liked him best when he was complaining about Ichabod with Hemingway. The two of them pair well together. I've met Hemingway before but he wasn't very memorable and I suspect I won't remember him again if I read another mystery. I liked Glass at first because he was a comical figure but the more moralizing he did the less I liked him, especially when he moralized over his superiors. My least favorite character was Helen. She was just TOO TOO stupid. I wanted to slap her. Her husband John wasn't much better.
This was a fun, light mystery. Thank you to Georgette Heyer and her husband, Ronald Rougier for coming up with an engaging mystery and fun characters.
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October 9, 2017This book is one of those "skip to the good bits" stories. The mystery itself drags a little, as every possible suspect is eliminated until we finally reach a 'nose on your face' solution. And the reader cannot help but share everyone else's exasperation with Helen and John, whose only value to the story is watching the other characters tell them just how idiotic they are.
But Sally and Neville are 1000% gold.
Sally is near-unflappable, and splendid in so many ways. Neville is hilarious. I'm sure I'd want to hit him if I ever had to have a conversation with him (and especially if he owed me money), but his constant puncturing of social mores is fabulous in the extreme.
Additional content warning: Heyer indulges in one of her Jewish stereotype characters.
Narration-wise, this was quite a good one. The narrator does speak very languidly, but I just listened to her at 1.5 and it all worked well.
But Sally and Neville are 1000% gold.
Sally is near-unflappable, and splendid in so many ways. Neville is hilarious. I'm sure I'd want to hit him if I ever had to have a conversation with him (and especially if he owed me money), but his constant puncturing of social mores is fabulous in the extreme.
Additional content warning: Heyer indulges in one of her Jewish stereotype characters.
Narration-wise, this was quite a good one. The narrator does speak very languidly, but I just listened to her at 1.5 and it all worked well.
February 22, 2016
I have to say I really, really enjoyed this book. I thought it went along smoothly and was an easy read. I love the characters she created. Hannasyde and Hemmingway were a great team. They played off each other very well. Glass was a pain alright when he kept on with his scriptures and I did get a bit tired of him and his spouting all the time. About half way through I guessed it might be Glass but still wasn't sure until the end.
A lot of people didn't like Helen but to me she was a kind of nothing character. It was almost like she was there just to throw in a time frame that eschewed everything for the police. Once she and her husband made up that was kind of it for her.
I LOVED Neville!! How could you not? The idiotic nephew who wasn't quite as simple as he made himself out to be. And I did like that he and Sally ended up together.
All in all a very entertaining read that I think would do well on tv.
A lot of people didn't like Helen but to me she was a kind of nothing character. It was almost like she was there just to throw in a time frame that eschewed everything for the police. Once she and her husband made up that was kind of it for her.
I LOVED Neville!! How could you not? The idiotic nephew who wasn't quite as simple as he made himself out to be. And I did like that he and Sally ended up together.
All in all a very entertaining read that I think would do well on tv.
February 9, 2024
after rereading in 2016 Maybe this is really only 3½ stars. I did enjoy Neville Fletcher & Sally Drew and of course Constable Glass! Unimportant but annoying is the fact that the picture on the cover of this 2006 Arrow edition not only had nothing to do with the murder but doesn't even represent the people in this book!!
I recalled the solution to this one from the beginning of my reread and
I recalled the solution to this one from the beginning of my reread and
April 22, 2019
Heyer lacks the detachment necessary for a successful mystery story. When she talks about a character, her attitude is pathetically transparent; in this one, I detected the criminal and the love interest at once, and watching the detectives' meanderings felt painfully boring.
Neville is fun, though, and snatches the extra star.
Neville is fun, though, and snatches the extra star.
June 9, 2025
Two good things: The Neville character was amusing in an over-the-top British fop/airhead kind of way, and it took some work (or a photographic memory) to get all those bits of Scripture into Constable Glass' dialogue. But the rest of it--ugh. The repetition of the facts of the case, the lack of character development, the scarcity of narrative--ugh. Most of the book is dialogue, but a lot of it is dialogue as if lifted straight from real life with all the boring, repetitive bits left in. It was like reading the screenplay for a dull five-hour film.
This author was recommended by a well-liked author (who will remain nameless) at a convention I attended. As it turned out, when I read one of the contemporary author's books, I didn't care for it, either.
This author was recommended by a well-liked author (who will remain nameless) at a convention I attended. As it turned out, when I read one of the contemporary author's books, I didn't care for it, either.
December 11, 2023
Three years ago, a group read introduced me to the novel Envious Casca. It was my first time reading one of Georgette Heyer’s novels, and I was taken instantly by the quality of her book. As I was getting into reading classic British mysteries, I decided to seek out as many of hers that I could find, in anticipation of reliving the enjoyable experience of my first read.
The journey has proven an uneven one. The second of her novels that I read, Why Shoot a Butler?, not only proved that my first experience wasn’t an aberration, but it convinced me that I had discovered a new favorite author. Then I picked up Footsteps in the Dark, which proved a disappointment but a forgivable one as Heyer herself subsequently disowned it. The next two, They Found Him Dead and The Unfinished Clue, seemingly confirmed my hope that Heyer’s poor novel was an aberration in her oeuvre, while simultaneously clarifying her formula for her novels. It was when I read, Behold, Here's Poison, however, that I started questioning my previous conclusion.
That was the context in which I read this novel. Initially I was impressed with the quality of the premise, as the story opens immediately with the discovery of the victim and the launch of the investigation. Not only was this refreshingly different from Heyer’s previous works, it allowed for more of the book to be spent following the activities of inspectors Hannasyde and Hemingway, which was hardly a bad thing. As the plot unfolded, however, a sense of annoyance took hold. Some of this was fueled by the activities of the amateur investigators and Hannasyde’s sloppy interview techniques, which seemed to serve little other purpose than to provide dramatic encounters. But my main annoyance was with my suspicions early on as to who the murderer was, as well as with how the character developments would play out. Heyer was not going to be as predictable as that, was she?
Indeed she was. Though I missed a couple of clues that hinted at the motives behind the crime, by the time I reached the end I discovered to my disappointment that I had indeed anticipated accurately the outcome. While some readers may enjoy such a process, for me it’s something of a letdown to predict accurately the identity of the culprit, as it makes the mystery seem not as clever. With the number of Heyer’s unread mysteries dwindling for me, I’m hoping that this and proves the last such result, rather than an example of an author who missed as often as she hit.
The journey has proven an uneven one. The second of her novels that I read, Why Shoot a Butler?, not only proved that my first experience wasn’t an aberration, but it convinced me that I had discovered a new favorite author. Then I picked up Footsteps in the Dark, which proved a disappointment but a forgivable one as Heyer herself subsequently disowned it. The next two, They Found Him Dead and The Unfinished Clue, seemingly confirmed my hope that Heyer’s poor novel was an aberration in her oeuvre, while simultaneously clarifying her formula for her novels. It was when I read, Behold, Here's Poison, however, that I started questioning my previous conclusion.
That was the context in which I read this novel. Initially I was impressed with the quality of the premise, as the story opens immediately with the discovery of the victim and the launch of the investigation. Not only was this refreshingly different from Heyer’s previous works, it allowed for more of the book to be spent following the activities of inspectors Hannasyde and Hemingway, which was hardly a bad thing. As the plot unfolded, however, a sense of annoyance took hold. Some of this was fueled by the activities of the amateur investigators and Hannasyde’s sloppy interview techniques, which seemed to serve little other purpose than to provide dramatic encounters. But my main annoyance was with my suspicions early on as to who the murderer was, as well as with how the character developments would play out. Heyer was not going to be as predictable as that, was she?
Indeed she was. Though I missed a couple of clues that hinted at the motives behind the crime, by the time I reached the end I discovered to my disappointment that I had indeed anticipated accurately the outcome. While some readers may enjoy such a process, for me it’s something of a letdown to predict accurately the identity of the culprit, as it makes the mystery seem not as clever. With the number of Heyer’s unread mysteries dwindling for me, I’m hoping that this and proves the last such result, rather than an example of an author who missed as often as she hit.
December 22, 2020
(Obligatory Heyer caveat: she hated literally everyone. She was a racist, sexist, homophobic, classist, antisemitic horror, and boy does it come through in all her books. This particular book hits hard on the antisemitism front, but when you pick up one of her books you're just rolling the dice on which specific groups she'll be hating on.)
Okay, so Heyer's mystery plots are never anything to write home about. (I recently read that her husband came up with her mystery plots, and let me say that I am Not Surprised.) They are quite easily solved. You read Heyer, if you do, for her characters and their banter. And this book does supply some solid characters, and there is definitely significant banter, and I'm pretty sure that's why I loved this as a teenager.
As an adult, though, this book falls squarely into the "Oh My God, Someone Help The Straights" category. Like. I enjoyed this a whole lot less because I was just CRINGING at the married couple. The coldness! The lack of communication! The wife's terror of her husband! The husband's total lack of trust in his wife! The ... everything. The problem was everything. (In fact, the marriage was so awful that partway through the book I googled, hoping Heyer never married, but alas. She was very much married when she wrote this. That's how I learned the thing about her husband and her mystery plots, though. I REALLY hope she wasn't writing from experience here.) I spent most of the book so distracted by the hideous spectacle of heterosexuality as portrayed by Heyer that the banter was almost lost on me.
So, honestly, this would be a two-star review if I were reading it for the first time today. I still have those fond teenaged memories, though, so. Three stars it is.
Okay, so Heyer's mystery plots are never anything to write home about. (I recently read that her husband came up with her mystery plots, and let me say that I am Not Surprised.) They are quite easily solved. You read Heyer, if you do, for her characters and their banter. And this book does supply some solid characters, and there is definitely significant banter, and I'm pretty sure that's why I loved this as a teenager.
As an adult, though, this book falls squarely into the "Oh My God, Someone Help The Straights" category. Like. I enjoyed this a whole lot less because I was just CRINGING at the married couple. The coldness! The lack of communication! The wife's terror of her husband! The husband's total lack of trust in his wife! The ... everything. The problem was everything. (In fact, the marriage was so awful that partway through the book I googled, hoping Heyer never married, but alas. She was very much married when she wrote this. That's how I learned the thing about her husband and her mystery plots, though. I REALLY hope she wasn't writing from experience here.) I spent most of the book so distracted by the hideous spectacle of heterosexuality as portrayed by Heyer that the banter was almost lost on me.
So, honestly, this would be a two-star review if I were reading it for the first time today. I still have those fond teenaged memories, though, so. Three stars it is.
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May 29, 2019
One of the best instalments in this series so far.
There were some truly superb characters - by which I mean mostly PC Glass and Neville Fletcher. The mystery was also very good for once. I just wish there'd been more romance!
[Blog] - [Bookstagram]
There were some truly superb characters - by which I mean mostly PC Glass and Neville Fletcher. The mystery was also very good for once. I just wish there'd been more romance!
[Blog] - [Bookstagram]
October 7, 2013
I got this for $1 in a Kindle sale because I'd never read one of Heyer's mysteries and I like Golden Age mysteries. And it was decent, although the detective has pretty much no personality at all.
And the worst part was that I found the solution of the mystery completely obvious from the very beginning. It is meant to be a mystery that is totally impossible to have been committed until the big reveal that makes everything possible, but I saw that possibility at once. So it wasn't too much fun to read the entire book, increasingly sure of the culprit, as no one in the book has any idea until the last few pages.
So I probably won't be reading more of Heyer's mysteries any time soon, unfortunately. The one part of the novel that was enjoyable was a tiny little romance, which would make sense I suppose.
And the worst part was that I found the solution of the mystery completely obvious from the very beginning. It is meant to be a mystery that is totally impossible to have been committed until the big reveal that makes everything possible, but I saw that possibility at once. So it wasn't too much fun to read the entire book, increasingly sure of the culprit, as no one in the book has any idea until the last few pages.
So I probably won't be reading more of Heyer's mysteries any time soon, unfortunately. The one part of the novel that was enjoyable was a tiny little romance, which would make sense I suppose.
February 3, 2015
My least favorite of the Hannasyde books. The solution is entirely glaringly obvious from the very beginning, and the policeman quoting the Bible is SO ANNOYING. It's like when authors do very badly written-out dialect. I wanted to bash him over the head a million times. And none of the other characters was interesting/engaging enough to make up for him.
November 18, 2013
A bit too easy to solve (and this is someone who hardly tries, especially with mysteries that hinge on tight timing), but fun and humorous. Not so much of the underlying social nastiness that Heyer's contemporary novels often reflect.
April 20, 2019
I like the constant action and the characters.
February 20, 2019
Ernest Fletcher has been murdered. This makes no sense, because he was such a wonderful man. At least that is what his sister says to the police. Ernest's household also contains his nephew Neville. Neville is a young man who apparently has no reason to exist, but he enjoys every minute of his existence.
After the police begin to look into things, they find that there may have been many people who would have wanted Ernie to be dead. Some of them are nearby Helen, her husband John and her sister Sally are neighbors. The three of them were not fans of Ernie.
It turns out Helen had been to the house the night of the murder. She was trying to retrieve some IOU's which Ernest held. He did not want to surrender them to Helen, he had a better idea.
Inspector Hannasyde, Sergeant Hemingway and Officer Glass seem to be finding too many clues which take them in too many directions.
Ms Heyer creates characters who are interesting, entertaining and have witty conversations with one another. These characters are no exception. Even at the worst of times for the characters, there is humor and sophisticated dialog.
Figuring out the villain was not difficult. Even figuring out the motive was not difficult. But the journey getting to the solution was filled with fun.
Ms Heyer liked playing with words. And also playing with her readers. She wrote at a time when authors were expected to be sophisticated and able to travel in the best circles. Ms Heyer's characters were people who were sophisticated and able to travel in the best circles. That did not mean they always met the best people.
If the reader enjoys reading stories from a different era, then this is a wonderful book. If the reader enjoys an author who loves what she does, then this is a wonderful book. Most of all, if the reader wants to laugh at the silliness of human beings, then this is a perfect book.
I received this book from the publisher through NetGalley. I am voluntarily writing this review and all opinions are completely my own.
After the police begin to look into things, they find that there may have been many people who would have wanted Ernie to be dead. Some of them are nearby Helen, her husband John and her sister Sally are neighbors. The three of them were not fans of Ernie.
It turns out Helen had been to the house the night of the murder. She was trying to retrieve some IOU's which Ernest held. He did not want to surrender them to Helen, he had a better idea.
Inspector Hannasyde, Sergeant Hemingway and Officer Glass seem to be finding too many clues which take them in too many directions.
Ms Heyer creates characters who are interesting, entertaining and have witty conversations with one another. These characters are no exception. Even at the worst of times for the characters, there is humor and sophisticated dialog.
Figuring out the villain was not difficult. Even figuring out the motive was not difficult. But the journey getting to the solution was filled with fun.
Ms Heyer liked playing with words. And also playing with her readers. She wrote at a time when authors were expected to be sophisticated and able to travel in the best circles. Ms Heyer's characters were people who were sophisticated and able to travel in the best circles. That did not mean they always met the best people.
If the reader enjoys reading stories from a different era, then this is a wonderful book. If the reader enjoys an author who loves what she does, then this is a wonderful book. Most of all, if the reader wants to laugh at the silliness of human beings, then this is a perfect book.
I received this book from the publisher through NetGalley. I am voluntarily writing this review and all opinions are completely my own.
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