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Inspector Wexford #1
From Doon With Death
Dazzling psychological suspense. Razor-sharp dialogue. Plots that catch and hold like a noose. These are the hallmarks of crime legend Ruth Rendell. From Doon with Death, now in a striking new paperback edition, is her classic debut novel -- and the book that introduced one of the most popular sleuths of the twentieth century.
There is nothing extraordinary about Margaret Parsons, a timid housewife in the quiet town of Kingsmarkham, a woman devoted to her garden, her kitchen, her husband. Except that Margaret Parsons is dead, brutally strangled, her body abandoned in the nearby woods.
Who would kill someone with nothing to hide? Inspector Wexford, the formidable chief of police, feels baffled -- until he discovers Margaret's dark secret: a trove of rare books, each volume breathlessly inscribed by a passionate lover identified only as Doon. As Wexford delves deeper into both Mrs. Parsons’ past and the wary community circling round her memory like wolves, the case builds with relentless momentum to a surprise finale as clever as it is blindsiding.
In From Doon with Death, Ruth Rendell instantly mastered the form that would become synonymous with her name. Chilling, richly characterized, and ingeniously constructed, this is psychological suspense at its very finest.
There is nothing extraordinary about Margaret Parsons, a timid housewife in the quiet town of Kingsmarkham, a woman devoted to her garden, her kitchen, her husband. Except that Margaret Parsons is dead, brutally strangled, her body abandoned in the nearby woods.
Who would kill someone with nothing to hide? Inspector Wexford, the formidable chief of police, feels baffled -- until he discovers Margaret's dark secret: a trove of rare books, each volume breathlessly inscribed by a passionate lover identified only as Doon. As Wexford delves deeper into both Mrs. Parsons’ past and the wary community circling round her memory like wolves, the case builds with relentless momentum to a surprise finale as clever as it is blindsiding.
In From Doon with Death, Ruth Rendell instantly mastered the form that would become synonymous with her name. Chilling, richly characterized, and ingeniously constructed, this is psychological suspense at its very finest.
226 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1964
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8745 people want to read
About the author
Ruth Rendell
456 books1,625 followersA.K.A. Barbara Vine
Ruth Barbara Rendell, Baroness Rendell of Babergh, CBE, who also wrote under the pseudonym Barbara Vine, was an acclaimed English crime writer, known for her many psychological thrillers and murder mysteries and above all for Inspector Wexford.
Ruth Barbara Rendell, Baroness Rendell of Babergh, CBE, who also wrote under the pseudonym Barbara Vine, was an acclaimed English crime writer, known for her many psychological thrillers and murder mysteries and above all for Inspector Wexford.
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July 16, 2024
An Excellent Mystery!
This is the first book in a series. Also, the first book l have read by this author.
Ruth Rendell introduces us to Detective Wexford. How British!
Five stars. 💫💫💫💫💫
This is the first book in a series. Also, the first book l have read by this author.
Ruth Rendell introduces us to Detective Wexford. How British!
Five stars. 💫💫💫💫💫
May 6, 2015
Update, May 6, 2015: I am undertaking a Ruth Rendell "key" works project -- the books The Guardian recently noted as such the day of Ruth Rendell's death. From Doon With Death is the first of these . I've just reread this novel again after six years, and while I wouldn't change my rating, I will say that it was definitely a pleasure to have taken it up again. This time through I've noticed much more than I did the first time -- back then I think I was looking much more for plot and storyline, where now I'm tending to focus more on people and what makes them do what they do. This book definitely meets my requirements.
-- returning to original review now, but I still recommend this novel - it's much better the second time through. --
There's a short section in the back of the edition of this book that I own which notes that Rendell did not follow along the Agatha Christie line and write mysteries based on characters of the upper class. Indeed, From Doon With Death, the first Wexford novel, focuses on the mystery of the death of a somewhat rather dowdy housewife who goes missing and then turns up dead. Margaret Parsons is the flip side of extraordinary; no enemies, lives in somewhat of a rut, and has no sordid qualities about her whatsoever. So why would anyone want this woman dead? Wexford has only a few clues: a spent match on the ground, and inscriptions in some of Margaret's books that are signed "Doon." But there's no clue as to Doon's identity, so Wexford is baffled.
For a series opener, it's a bit typical. What I mean is that having read other Inspector Wexford books, I know that the author takes time to more fully develop Wexford's character as the series progresses. Also, as a side note, don't forget that this book was written in 1964 and thus attitudes are a bit dated. Overall though, I love Ruth Rendell's work, and I'm very happy to have read this one.
I'd recommend it to readers who enjoy a good British mystery with solid plotting.
-- returning to original review now, but I still recommend this novel - it's much better the second time through. --
There's a short section in the back of the edition of this book that I own which notes that Rendell did not follow along the Agatha Christie line and write mysteries based on characters of the upper class. Indeed, From Doon With Death, the first Wexford novel, focuses on the mystery of the death of a somewhat rather dowdy housewife who goes missing and then turns up dead. Margaret Parsons is the flip side of extraordinary; no enemies, lives in somewhat of a rut, and has no sordid qualities about her whatsoever. So why would anyone want this woman dead? Wexford has only a few clues: a spent match on the ground, and inscriptions in some of Margaret's books that are signed "Doon." But there's no clue as to Doon's identity, so Wexford is baffled.
For a series opener, it's a bit typical. What I mean is that having read other Inspector Wexford books, I know that the author takes time to more fully develop Wexford's character as the series progresses. Also, as a side note, don't forget that this book was written in 1964 and thus attitudes are a bit dated. Overall though, I love Ruth Rendell's work, and I'm very happy to have read this one.
I'd recommend it to readers who enjoy a good British mystery with solid plotting.
May 5, 2015
My reread of the first of the Wexford series was different than my first time through the book. Back then, in the early 1990s, I was a novice mystery writer eager to learn from a master. Now, I've written quite a few mysteries myself and I know what to look for. I read, now, for deeper glimpses into Rendell's craft, and I'm not disappointed. There's an art to writing a police procedural that is also a village mystery, and Rendell is the consummate artist. Her characters--even the good-guy cops--are conflicted, flawed, stubborn, and utterly human, and her genre fiction is the best of its kind. Absolutely.
March 14, 2020
First published in 1964, this is the first Chief Inspector Wexford mystery. For some reason I had never read the Wexford novels before and it is a good beginning to the series. The story begins when Inspector Mike Burdon is alerted by a neighbour that his wife is missing. Ronald Parsons almost prides himself on his dull and respectable life. He claims it is totally out of character for his wife, Margaret, to disappear without word. Burdon tends to agree and contacts the police station. When Margaret is found murdered, it is up to Wexford and Burdon to unravel Margaret's past and discover what led to the death of a quiet, suburban housewife.
Although this book does feel a little dated, that adds to the charm. Although Ruth Rendell does use certain stereotypes, it is clear that she has laid down a great basis for further books - Wexford is plain talking, intelligent and not easily swayed by a pretty face; Burdon a great sidekick and the small town of Kingsmarkham well described. Unusually, Rendell does not make any of the characters particularly sympathetic and that adds to the reality of the crime and suspects. There is also a great twist and sharp plotting, which bodes well and makes me want to read on.
The next book in the series is A New Lease Of Death: (A Wexford Case). However, I do agree strongly with other reviewers that this kindle book had a large number of typos, which is very disappointing. I am sure that a proof reader could have easily rectified the mistakes and, although I expect to see them in a self published book, it is unacceptable to find so many in a traditionally published ebook. However, the story itself was good and I am looking forward to reading more.
Although this book does feel a little dated, that adds to the charm. Although Ruth Rendell does use certain stereotypes, it is clear that she has laid down a great basis for further books - Wexford is plain talking, intelligent and not easily swayed by a pretty face; Burdon a great sidekick and the small town of Kingsmarkham well described. Unusually, Rendell does not make any of the characters particularly sympathetic and that adds to the reality of the crime and suspects. There is also a great twist and sharp plotting, which bodes well and makes me want to read on.
The next book in the series is A New Lease Of Death: (A Wexford Case). However, I do agree strongly with other reviewers that this kindle book had a large number of typos, which is very disappointing. I am sure that a proof reader could have easily rectified the mistakes and, although I expect to see them in a self published book, it is unacceptable to find so many in a traditionally published ebook. However, the story itself was good and I am looking forward to reading more.
March 1, 2025
The first of the Inspector Wexford series with the faithful sidekick Burden. A good read and a story written in 1964 that was out there in its plot. The town of Kingsmarkham (Midhurst in Sussex) has a murder of a seemingly ordinary person. The crux of the story is who is Doon?
A housewife is reported missing to Inspector Burden by her husband who comes home from work and she is not there. Margaret Parson the missing woman on the surface had an uneventful life. A few days later her body is discovered in a local wood.
The people In the story like Quadrant and Fabia his wife are all snobby and not very nice. The setting is familiar to Sussex people and the formulaic procedural detective story easy to read. I already have got my next Wexford from the library!
A housewife is reported missing to Inspector Burden by her husband who comes home from work and she is not there. Margaret Parson the missing woman on the surface had an uneventful life. A few days later her body is discovered in a local wood.
The people In the story like Quadrant and Fabia his wife are all snobby and not very nice. The setting is familiar to Sussex people and the formulaic procedural detective story easy to read. I already have got my next Wexford from the library!
June 20, 2015
Read by................ Terence Hardiman
Total Runtime......... 5 Hours 28 Mins
Description: Margaret Parsons is dead. She appeared to lead a very dull life. She had been a "good" woman. Religious, old-fashioned, and respectable, her life had been as spotless and ordinary as her home, as unexciting and dependable as her marriage. However, it was not because of her life that Chief Inspector Wexford became involved, but her death. How is it possible that a woman who had led such a quiet, respectable, unspectacular life could have met such a death of passion and violence? To Wexford, it simply does not make sense, until he begins to slowly uncover the layers of Margaret Parsons' real life...
Okay mystery, but the writing is wonderful. Looks like I will enjoy this series.
February 23, 2021
I didn't think that mystery novels had anything new for me to discover. Man, was I wrong and I'm so pleased about it. For me, the choice of murder victim in this novel stood out. Why in the world would any one go to the bother of killing and dumping a boring, plain woman like Margaret (Godfrey) Parsons? All the men in the case take one look at her photo and pretty much dismiss the most common motive. She's a dowdy housewife and her demise can't be explained by regular motives.
Enter Inspector Wexford, a man who I think I am going to like. He's a poetry buff, rather like one Adam Dalgliesh of P.D. James' creation. But unlike the refined Dalgliesh, Wexford isn't above some coarse policeman's talk. That roots him in reality.
And reality seems to be what interests Rendell. The town that the Parsons live in isn't some charming little English village. It's a town that's become just like any other town, the way all cities seem homogeneous these days, with exactly the same chain stores and restaurants along any main street, defying you to know exactly where you are, Spokane or Saskatoon. The problems are those of the early 1960s, when women were just starting to extricate themselves from being exclusively housewives and starting to reach for sexual equality.
Which brings us back to Margaret, our apparently boring, somewhat religious, utterly unremarkable victim. As Wexford investigates, he discovers a slightly mysterious past. I feel this just goes to show that all of us have past indiscretions that we have papered over and attempted to forget. Next time you meet someone who seems without a single redeeming feature, muse upon what might be found out about them during a murder investigation! While they tell you (as Margaret told the grocery store clerk) what they plan to cook for supper, imagine that this person has had at least one startling relationship or impulsive action lurking in their background and your new acquaintance would be horrified if you knew about it. We all have more in us than most other people will ever appreciate.
This is the first book featuring Wexford, so I assume they will improve. I've enjoyed this one thoroughly so I very much look forward to the next investigation.
Cross posted at my blog:
https://wanda-thenextfifty.blogspot.c...
Enter Inspector Wexford, a man who I think I am going to like. He's a poetry buff, rather like one Adam Dalgliesh of P.D. James' creation. But unlike the refined Dalgliesh, Wexford isn't above some coarse policeman's talk. That roots him in reality.
And reality seems to be what interests Rendell. The town that the Parsons live in isn't some charming little English village. It's a town that's become just like any other town, the way all cities seem homogeneous these days, with exactly the same chain stores and restaurants along any main street, defying you to know exactly where you are, Spokane or Saskatoon. The problems are those of the early 1960s, when women were just starting to extricate themselves from being exclusively housewives and starting to reach for sexual equality.
Which brings us back to Margaret, our apparently boring, somewhat religious, utterly unremarkable victim. As Wexford investigates, he discovers a slightly mysterious past. I feel this just goes to show that all of us have past indiscretions that we have papered over and attempted to forget. Next time you meet someone who seems without a single redeeming feature, muse upon what might be found out about them during a murder investigation! While they tell you (as Margaret told the grocery store clerk) what they plan to cook for supper, imagine that this person has had at least one startling relationship or impulsive action lurking in their background and your new acquaintance would be horrified if you knew about it. We all have more in us than most other people will ever appreciate.
This is the first book featuring Wexford, so I assume they will improve. I've enjoyed this one thoroughly so I very much look forward to the next investigation.
Cross posted at my blog:
https://wanda-thenextfifty.blogspot.c...
December 1, 2016
This is the 1st book in the Inspector Wexford series by author Ruth Rendell. A good read that is written in an old fashioned style that introduces the main characters and sets up the series.
In this opening mystery Inspector Wexford investigates the disappearance of Margaret Parsons, a housewife who goes missing and is later found dead in the nearby woods. Margaret Parsons appears to have no enemies and seems to live a quiet life with very little excitement. So the mystery is who has killed her and why? There is very little for Wexford to go on but for a discarded match and an inscription on some of Margaret's books signed 'Doon'. But who is 'Doon'.
I am pretty sure there are better books to come in this series but this is a reasonable start.
In this opening mystery Inspector Wexford investigates the disappearance of Margaret Parsons, a housewife who goes missing and is later found dead in the nearby woods. Margaret Parsons appears to have no enemies and seems to live a quiet life with very little excitement. So the mystery is who has killed her and why? There is very little for Wexford to go on but for a discarded match and an inscription on some of Margaret's books signed 'Doon'. But who is 'Doon'.
I am pretty sure there are better books to come in this series but this is a reasonable start.
January 28, 2023
Wexford Begins
Review of the Arrow Books 50th Anniversary Kindle* eBook edition (2014), with a Foreword by Ian Rankin and an Afterword by Ruth Rendell, of the original John Long Ltd. hardcover (1964)
I got into the habit of binge reading or re-reading classic mystery authors during the pandemic and I now find it to be a continuing habit. I only ever read a few of Ruth Rendell's (aka Barbara Vine's) books at the time they were first published, but I remember the Inspector Wexford TV series fondly and thought that I'd start a Rendell binge for 2023.
As Rendell explains in her Afterword, From Doon with Death was originally written as a one-off standalone. simply as a challenge to see if she could write a whodunnit style of mystery. The character of Chief Inspector Wexford here is somewhat colder than the character in the later books and the TV series. The home life is completely absent and the character is not given to quoting Shakespeare or other classics. He even seems to be a bit contemptuous of the Victorian poetry books that feature in the plot. Faithful assistant Detective Inspector Mike Burden is already quite set in his ways.
Cover image for the original John Long Ltd. (UK) hardcover edition from 1964. Image sourced from Wikipedia.
From Doon with Death (the origin of the 'Doon' nickname is never explained in the book as far as I noticed) was quite a clever mystery with a radical (for its time) twist in its reveal ending. I thought that there was a fair number of clues for the reader which allowed you to make the leap to the solution somewhat ahead of Wexford and Burden. I always say that a little flattery of the reader by an author is a surefire way to gain a readership. Rendell went on to a long and prestigious career after this first outing.
Trivia and Links
* The Kindle editions of this book appear to be completely muddled on GR, so I've used the 50th Anniversary paperback as a proxy.
From Doon with Death was adapted for the Ruth Rendell / Inspector Wexford Mysteries TV series (1987-2000) as Series 5 Episodes 7 & 8 in 1991 with actor George Baker (who also wrote the adaptation) as Inspector Wexford. You can watch the entire 2 episodes on YouTube here.
Review of the Arrow Books 50th Anniversary Kindle* eBook edition (2014), with a Foreword by Ian Rankin and an Afterword by Ruth Rendell, of the original John Long Ltd. hardcover (1964)
From long experience Burden knew that whatever may happen in detective fiction, coincidence is more common than conspiracy in real life.
I got into the habit of binge reading or re-reading classic mystery authors during the pandemic and I now find it to be a continuing habit. I only ever read a few of Ruth Rendell's (aka Barbara Vine's) books at the time they were first published, but I remember the Inspector Wexford TV series fondly and thought that I'd start a Rendell binge for 2023.
As Rendell explains in her Afterword, From Doon with Death was originally written as a one-off standalone. simply as a challenge to see if she could write a whodunnit style of mystery. The character of Chief Inspector Wexford here is somewhat colder than the character in the later books and the TV series. The home life is completely absent and the character is not given to quoting Shakespeare or other classics. He even seems to be a bit contemptuous of the Victorian poetry books that feature in the plot. Faithful assistant Detective Inspector Mike Burden is already quite set in his ways.
Cover image for the original John Long Ltd. (UK) hardcover edition from 1964. Image sourced from Wikipedia.
From Doon with Death (the origin of the 'Doon' nickname is never explained in the book as far as I noticed) was quite a clever mystery with a radical (for its time) twist in its reveal ending. I thought that there was a fair number of clues for the reader which allowed you to make the leap to the solution somewhat ahead of Wexford and Burden. I always say that a little flattery of the reader by an author is a surefire way to gain a readership. Rendell went on to a long and prestigious career after this first outing.
Trivia and Links
* The Kindle editions of this book appear to be completely muddled on GR, so I've used the 50th Anniversary paperback as a proxy.
From Doon with Death was adapted for the Ruth Rendell / Inspector Wexford Mysteries TV series (1987-2000) as Series 5 Episodes 7 & 8 in 1991 with actor George Baker (who also wrote the adaptation) as Inspector Wexford. You can watch the entire 2 episodes on YouTube here.
June 6, 2018
It must have taken fifteen years to obtain the series volume I needed and get started. I want to enjoy a lauded authoress and have the jury out for Ruth Rendell / Barbara Vine. However, it is not the names that I grade. “From Doon With Death”, 1964, was dry. I hear her solo stories and other Reginald Wexford / Mike Burden cases are better; a good thing, because I own nearly them all, courtesy of bargain bins! Higher marks for higher enjoyment will mean something.
I initially gave three stars, for an aspect I don't recall. Two stars make sense. Reginald was an asshole! That compounded with how much I hate things allegedly stated “quietly”! If you are annoyed by a colleague or subordinate, like the uniquely likeable Mike: a human being raises their voice somewhat, or at least expresses themselves emphatically. This “quiet” or “calm” idea is crap: as robotic as it is irritating! That presents no memorable personality and in this case, I was glad Reginald was not in the story until later; that Mike is an equal protagonist. Reginald was rude to Mike. He was very harsh, merely at Mike's posing of a question, or making a suggestion!
The other downer is that no one else was likeable and a drabness pervaded. I surmise Ruth intentionally conveyed a depressed husband and household but that persisted too long, before the appearance of a clue brought any action at all. Finally, books belonging to that lady are inscribed with the titular name and we strive to suss out who that is. Tracking a lipstick tube was the only other clue picking-up a boring novel. The sole other interesting facet was how perplexing it was that this lady was killed. I will try Ruth's first solo novel next time.
I initially gave three stars, for an aspect I don't recall. Two stars make sense. Reginald was an asshole! That compounded with how much I hate things allegedly stated “quietly”! If you are annoyed by a colleague or subordinate, like the uniquely likeable Mike: a human being raises their voice somewhat, or at least expresses themselves emphatically. This “quiet” or “calm” idea is crap: as robotic as it is irritating! That presents no memorable personality and in this case, I was glad Reginald was not in the story until later; that Mike is an equal protagonist. Reginald was rude to Mike. He was very harsh, merely at Mike's posing of a question, or making a suggestion!
The other downer is that no one else was likeable and a drabness pervaded. I surmise Ruth intentionally conveyed a depressed husband and household but that persisted too long, before the appearance of a clue brought any action at all. Finally, books belonging to that lady are inscribed with the titular name and we strive to suss out who that is. Tracking a lipstick tube was the only other clue picking-up a boring novel. The sole other interesting facet was how perplexing it was that this lady was killed. I will try Ruth's first solo novel next time.
December 1, 2021
An old fashioned detective story, but the final expose is anything but old fashioned. It was a surprise that in the 1960s, Ruth Rendell thought of such an ending. I have always been in awe of Ruth's writing, and this was no exception.
I am reading some contemporary detective series, but i am getting tired of the alternate timelines and multiple POVs. It was nice to go back this straightforward whodunit.
Another thing I liked is, it was not burdened by the detective's personal story. Wexford's skills as a detective was exceptional, and i look forward to more in this series.
.
I am reading some contemporary detective series, but i am getting tired of the alternate timelines and multiple POVs. It was nice to go back this straightforward whodunit.
Another thing I liked is, it was not burdened by the detective's personal story. Wexford's skills as a detective was exceptional, and i look forward to more in this series.
.
October 8, 2022
Re-reading starting Jan. 2, 2022 or apparently not for some reason I'm unaware of at the moment. Stay tuned, because I'll definitely going to read it again. I hope, side-eyes TBR.
Do I even own this?? I should probably figure that out before making plans to read it. Good grief.
Do I even own this?? I should probably figure that out before making plans to read it. Good grief.
May 13, 2020
From what I can tell, this is not only the first book in Ruth Rendell's Inspector Wexford series, but also her first published novel.
Although it lacks the polish of later volumes in the series, and Wexford especially hasn't yet assumed final form, it is a very capable first outing. The time and place and characters are generally well drawn, and the plot engaging (even though the outcome was obvious to me fairly early on).
It will be interesting to see Rendell's style develop as I continue with the series as part of a group read.
Although it lacks the polish of later volumes in the series, and Wexford especially hasn't yet assumed final form, it is a very capable first outing. The time and place and characters are generally well drawn, and the plot engaging (even though the outcome was obvious to me fairly early on).
It will be interesting to see Rendell's style develop as I continue with the series as part of a group read.
July 14, 2015
I've seen other reviews that say From Doon With Death is the least of Ruth Rendell's books. That's the good thing, because it's an unfair book. It hides information from the reader, and this information is vital to the solution of the case. It is not a case of intuition, it is the answer to the mystery in so many words, in a conversation between the detective and another party, to which the reader is not privy to. And yet, it is fairly easy to guess who the murderer is (although, it probably wasn't the case when it was first published).
To be fair, it has a few things going for it. There is the open-minded attitude Inspector Wexford has towards people who are different from the majority. It is not a picture perfect little town, but is grimy and seedy. The people are not at all charming, and are often more than a little annoying. Also, there is no Hastings or Watson to romanticize the proceedings, and given how much I hate both characters, I'm adding a star just for that.
However, it is clearly a first book. I know nothing much about Inspector Wexford or Mike Burden (who actually does decent work and doesn't go around contradicting or second-guessing his boss), just that they are the law. But the worst for me was the concealment of information, I don't like that at all. I will obviously read the rest of the series, but the start was a disappointment.
To be fair, it has a few things going for it. There is the open-minded attitude Inspector Wexford has towards people who are different from the majority. It is not a picture perfect little town, but is grimy and seedy. The people are not at all charming, and are often more than a little annoying. Also, there is no Hastings or Watson to romanticize the proceedings, and given how much I hate both characters, I'm adding a star just for that.
However, it is clearly a first book. I know nothing much about Inspector Wexford or Mike Burden (who actually does decent work and doesn't go around contradicting or second-guessing his boss), just that they are the law. But the worst for me was the concealment of information, I don't like that at all. I will obviously read the rest of the series, but the start was a disappointment.
December 24, 2017
Predictable and charmless. This was my first Ruth Rendell and I started it with high expectations but was quite disappointed. The prose and epigraphs were good, which is why I’m giving this book a second star.
June 22, 2015
This is the first book by Ruth Rendell I've read (I know, shame on me). I was about 2/3 through, thinking it was well written, interesting, but not yet sensing it was truly special. My feeling, however, was that I should wait to see how she resolved it before reaching a conclusion. WOW! I have become a fan.
December 12, 2022
This is the first book I read by this author, inspired by some positive reviews I've seen around. Ruth Rendell introduces here Chief Inspector Wexford, who, along with Inspector Burden, will have to solve the murder of a housewife named Margaret Parsons in the quiet English town of Kingsmarkham.
The novel is somewhat outdated, dating back to 1964, but it’s a compelling story that retains all the charm of a well-written thriller. During the investigation conducted by the two inspectors, the different characters are questioned in search of information, bringing to light secrets more or less obscure in a seemingly happy life. The psychological profile of the various characters emerges through the interviews and descriptions of present and past facts, but without anyone standing out above the others, at least until the last chapters, where the truth is revealed with a final twist.
The couple is well matched: Wexford is an all of a piece cop, intelligent and perceptive, he does not let himself be intimidated by anyone, man or woman, whatever the social class he/she belongs to; Burden is an excellent shoulder, sharp and ready to follow orders. Unlike other novels, the story is not burdened by the personal stories of the detectives, focusing on the crime and the investigation.
As a first volume I liked it. I enjoyed Wexford's abilities as a detective and can't wait to continue with this series.
The novel is somewhat outdated, dating back to 1964, but it’s a compelling story that retains all the charm of a well-written thriller. During the investigation conducted by the two inspectors, the different characters are questioned in search of information, bringing to light secrets more or less obscure in a seemingly happy life. The psychological profile of the various characters emerges through the interviews and descriptions of present and past facts, but without anyone standing out above the others, at least until the last chapters, where the truth is revealed with a final twist.
The couple is well matched: Wexford is an all of a piece cop, intelligent and perceptive, he does not let himself be intimidated by anyone, man or woman, whatever the social class he/she belongs to; Burden is an excellent shoulder, sharp and ready to follow orders. Unlike other novels, the story is not burdened by the personal stories of the detectives, focusing on the crime and the investigation.
As a first volume I liked it. I enjoyed Wexford's abilities as a detective and can't wait to continue with this series.
April 15, 2020
This is a reread for me in preparation for our first Ruth Rendell buddy read in the English Mysteries book club starting May 1. Please come join us for the discussion.
As a beginning book, it was of course not as good as some of the subsequent ones. Still I was delighted reading it again 40 years later. Rendell says she modeled Wexford after her father and I realized that maybe that is why this series appeals to me so much. He reminds me of my dad. My dad was a big man, quiet and in authority (he was Superintendent of Schools). This was written in 1964 and my dad would have been 43 and Wexford was 52 so they were close in age.
It is amazing that after 50 years this book has held up well and actually touched a quite risque subject for the time. I had forgotten that or not put it in context. It was a good read. I hope you all join us for the discussion.
As a beginning book, it was of course not as good as some of the subsequent ones. Still I was delighted reading it again 40 years later. Rendell says she modeled Wexford after her father and I realized that maybe that is why this series appeals to me so much. He reminds me of my dad. My dad was a big man, quiet and in authority (he was Superintendent of Schools). This was written in 1964 and my dad would have been 43 and Wexford was 52 so they were close in age.
It is amazing that after 50 years this book has held up well and actually touched a quite risque subject for the time. I had forgotten that or not put it in context. It was a good read. I hope you all join us for the discussion.
May 7, 2011
I am a fan of classis murder mysteries yet was not familiar with Ruth Rendell's writing (nor have I seen Inspector Wexford on television). It seemed like it was time to get acquainted.
Since this was the initial novel featuring Inspector Wexford, I suspect that as her series expanded, her detective grew more interesting to readers. I generally feel that when I've read three or more books featuring one character I enjoy each successive book a little bit more. That is an unnecessarily complicated way of saying that I'll try a couple more books by Rendell to see if they become "must reads."
Wexford brings a somewhat cold, calm, matter-of-factness to the investigation and that prohibited me from bonding with his character in any way. He was thorough and persistent but didn't seem very imaginative or particularly interesting. BUT, what was interesting, was the psychology of Rendells' characters; it sets the book apart from just being a routine who dun it.
Since this was the initial novel featuring Inspector Wexford, I suspect that as her series expanded, her detective grew more interesting to readers. I generally feel that when I've read three or more books featuring one character I enjoy each successive book a little bit more. That is an unnecessarily complicated way of saying that I'll try a couple more books by Rendell to see if they become "must reads."
Wexford brings a somewhat cold, calm, matter-of-factness to the investigation and that prohibited me from bonding with his character in any way. He was thorough and persistent but didn't seem very imaginative or particularly interesting. BUT, what was interesting, was the psychology of Rendells' characters; it sets the book apart from just being a routine who dun it.
February 16, 2017
3.5 stars
I hadn't read a Ruth Rendell in many years, though I remembered that I liked what I had read.
This book was published in 1964, the year I was born. (Which is why I read it now, to fulfill a book bingo square :)
For the most part, I thought this mystery was rather ordinary. A man reports his wife missing, and the police don't take him very seriously because she's only been missing a few hours. The husband describes their banal marriage and life, full of routine and absent of extravagances, as proof that her being missing is a big concern.
As it becomes clear that there is indeed foul play, of course we find that this ordinary housewife had a more interesting history than initially suspected.
I didn't find Inspector Wexford particularly clever, witty, thoughtful, or compassionate.
Then, the twist at the end did take me by surprise. And it all fit together nicely in hindsight, as a good mystery should.
I hadn't read a Ruth Rendell in many years, though I remembered that I liked what I had read.
This book was published in 1964, the year I was born. (Which is why I read it now, to fulfill a book bingo square :)
For the most part, I thought this mystery was rather ordinary. A man reports his wife missing, and the police don't take him very seriously because she's only been missing a few hours. The husband describes their banal marriage and life, full of routine and absent of extravagances, as proof that her being missing is a big concern.
As it becomes clear that there is indeed foul play, of course we find that this ordinary housewife had a more interesting history than initially suspected.
I didn't find Inspector Wexford particularly clever, witty, thoughtful, or compassionate.
Then, the twist at the end did take me by surprise. And it all fit together nicely in hindsight, as a good mystery should.
May 6, 2020
"From Doon With Death" is the 1st novel in a series featuring Chief Inspector Wexford and Detective Inspector Mike Burden in the imaginary market town of Kingsmarkham in the district of Sussex (UK). Although a fairly short novel, it is filled with intrigue as Wexford and Burden investigate the murder of a seemingly friendless, quiet wife named Margaret Parsons. As the woman's past is investigated the husband is either oblivious or may be among the numerous suspects.
As one reads the novel it's important to realize that it was originally published in 1964 and reveals British law at the time of publication. The humanity of Wexford shows not only his impatience when his time is wasted but also his compassion while still following the letter of the law. In the 2007 edition of the novel published by Ballantine Books there is a "Dossier" by the author in which she shares, "I realized that I had put an enormous amount of me-and to some extent my father-into him."
After reading the "Dossier" I knew I wanted to read more about Ruth Rendell and would encourage everyone to read more about her fascinating life and diverse accomplishments. Here is one of many articles of interest:
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/pe...
I have watched many shows on Acorn TV of British detectives and Wexford reminds me of many that I appreciate not only for the exploration of the criminal mind but also of human psychology all against the backdrop of diverse socioeconomic topics so if opportunity presents I know that I will continue reading this series or watch some of the stories that were adapted for TV.
As one reads the novel it's important to realize that it was originally published in 1964 and reveals British law at the time of publication. The humanity of Wexford shows not only his impatience when his time is wasted but also his compassion while still following the letter of the law. In the 2007 edition of the novel published by Ballantine Books there is a "Dossier" by the author in which she shares, "I realized that I had put an enormous amount of me-and to some extent my father-into him."
After reading the "Dossier" I knew I wanted to read more about Ruth Rendell and would encourage everyone to read more about her fascinating life and diverse accomplishments. Here is one of many articles of interest:
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/pe...
I have watched many shows on Acorn TV of British detectives and Wexford reminds me of many that I appreciate not only for the exploration of the criminal mind but also of human psychology all against the backdrop of diverse socioeconomic topics so if opportunity presents I know that I will continue reading this series or watch some of the stories that were adapted for TV.
November 4, 2015
I dislike detective series, I find it to be lazy writing more often than not and generally stay away from them. However, no one would accuse a career as prolific as Rendell's as lazy and there is something very appealing about her work. I think this book was a terrific example of it. Seemingly a classic British murder mystery, much like Christie, whom Rendell apparently disliked and strived to get away from comparisons to, and yet in retrospect very different. Rendell's England is less than quaint (despite the amounts of tea put away), her world is distinctly darker and its denizens are distinctly more immoral. There is a strong sociological commentary throughout, in this book in particular as far as class differences and sexual politics go and author's attitude is stunningly, notably progressive for the time. Wexford doesn't really make a strong impression as a leading character (in fact quite a good amount of the investigating falls to his partner, the aptly named Inspector Burden), but he shows much potential, intellectual and emotional astuteness and solid detecting skills. And so, for a non quaint, psychological mystery that relies on neither sex nor violence, this is a very good read. Recommended.
August 19, 2011
I wished I could say I like it but truth is it was a boring read. Being one who always gives everything more then one try, I imagine I'll read another of Rendell's books but will not be in a hurry to do so.
I could never really get into any of the characters especially Inspector Wexford. The ending was good but all the events leading to it never reached a level of suspense where it was hard to put down. In fact it was quite easy to put down and almost became a chore to finish. A short book of only 191 pages took me twice as long to read a 300+ page book.
Oh well not every book can be must read and 'From Doon With Death' certainly fell short of 'must read' stature
I could never really get into any of the characters especially Inspector Wexford. The ending was good but all the events leading to it never reached a level of suspense where it was hard to put down. In fact it was quite easy to put down and almost became a chore to finish. A short book of only 191 pages took me twice as long to read a 300+ page book.
Oh well not every book can be must read and 'From Doon With Death' certainly fell short of 'must read' stature
March 16, 2024
Rendell’s debut is largely a beat-for-beat British mystery novel, BUT with a few subversions that stand out as particularly interesting for 1963, when the book was published.
Read as part of my exploration of queer books written before the year 2000.
Read as part of my exploration of queer books written before the year 2000.
March 16, 2020
I've been listening to the Currently Reading podcast quite a bit these days.
One of the hosts, Meredith, is a huge Louise Penny fan, as I was for the first eight novels of her series. I hit my limit after nine, but this is the longest I have ever kept with a series. When I was into it, it was so great coming back to Three Pines.
In one of these podcasts, Meredith had recommended the Inspector Wexford series to Louise Penny fans. Same type of deal; a small village and developing characters throughout the series. And, great mysteries to boot.
One of my favourite books is A Sight for Sore Eyes, a standalone by Ruth Rendell, a mystery where she masterfully took a few storylines that ultimately converged. It's been almost twenty years since I read it, and there has always been a niggling in the back of my mind to get back to her eventually. So here we are.
This is, of course, the first in the series, her debut novel written in 1964. In her afterword, written in 2013, she says that she wanted to write a detective novel just to see if she could do it, but then the popularity of it drove her to write another, then another, and realizing that if she was going to live with these characters, she was going to have to develop them going forward.
So, this one doesn't really have much in the way of backstory of our Inspector, but it is quite a good police procedural. I must confess that as I reached the 40% marker or so, I was worried that this might get a bit dull and disuade me from the series. However, I am very pleased to say that at the 50% mark this changed and I became nicely engaged in the story.
This was a quick read, only about 200 pages, which I appreciated. Overall, I'm feeling three stars for this and am looking forward to reading the next one and hopefully many more after that. When Rendell is on her game, she is one of the best, so I'm glad to have this series on my to-read list.
One of the hosts, Meredith, is a huge Louise Penny fan, as I was for the first eight novels of her series. I hit my limit after nine, but this is the longest I have ever kept with a series. When I was into it, it was so great coming back to Three Pines.
In one of these podcasts, Meredith had recommended the Inspector Wexford series to Louise Penny fans. Same type of deal; a small village and developing characters throughout the series. And, great mysteries to boot.
One of my favourite books is A Sight for Sore Eyes, a standalone by Ruth Rendell, a mystery where she masterfully took a few storylines that ultimately converged. It's been almost twenty years since I read it, and there has always been a niggling in the back of my mind to get back to her eventually. So here we are.
This is, of course, the first in the series, her debut novel written in 1964. In her afterword, written in 2013, she says that she wanted to write a detective novel just to see if she could do it, but then the popularity of it drove her to write another, then another, and realizing that if she was going to live with these characters, she was going to have to develop them going forward.
So, this one doesn't really have much in the way of backstory of our Inspector, but it is quite a good police procedural. I must confess that as I reached the 40% marker or so, I was worried that this might get a bit dull and disuade me from the series. However, I am very pleased to say that at the 50% mark this changed and I became nicely engaged in the story.
This was a quick read, only about 200 pages, which I appreciated. Overall, I'm feeling three stars for this and am looking forward to reading the next one and hopefully many more after that. When Rendell is on her game, she is one of the best, so I'm glad to have this series on my to-read list.
March 12, 2017
From IMBd:
Margaret Parsons, a fairly ordinary housewife who, with her water board official husband Ron, has recently moved to Kingsmarkham, is found murdered in a field. Mrs. Parsons led an extremely uneventful life, being a lay preacher, but Inspector Wexford is intrigued when he is looking through her belongings and fine a number of expensive antique books all inscribed 'From Doon to Minna'.Who is Doon?
4* Going Wrong
4* The Keys to the Street
3* The Fever Tree and Other Stories
4* A Judgement in Stone
3* Fall of the Coin
4* People Don't Do Such Things
3* The Girl Next Door
2* To Fear a Painted Devil
3* Dark Corners
3* Live Flesh
4* The St. Zita Society
Inspector Wexford series:
3* From Doon With Death (Inspector Wexford, #1)
3* Some Lie and Some Die (Inspector Wexford, #8)
3* Shake Hands Forever (Inspector Wexford, #9)
3* A Sleeping Life (Inspector Wexford, #10)
3* The Veiled One (Inspector Wexford, #14)
4* Kissing the Gunner's Daughter (Inspector Wexford, #15)
3* Harm Done (Inspector Wexford, #18)
3* The Babes in the Wood (Inspector Wexford, #19)
3* End in Tears (Inspector Wexford, #20)
TR A New Lease of Death (Inspector Wexford, #2)
TR Wolf to the Slaughter (Inspector Wexford, #3)
TR The Best Man to Die (Inspector Wexford, #4)
TR A Guilty Thing Surprised (Inspector Wexford, #5)
TR No More Dying Then (Inspector Wexford, #6)
TR Murder Being Once Done (Inspector Wexford, #7)
TR Death Notes (Inspector Wexford, #11)
TR Speaker of Mandarin (Inspector Wexford, #12)
TR An Unkindness of Ravens (Inspector Wexford, #13)
TR Simisola (Inspector Wexford, #16)
TR Road Rage (Inspector Wexford, #17)
TR Not in the Flesh (Inspector Wexford, #21)
TR The Monster in the Box (Inspector Wexford, #22)
TR The Vault (Inspector Wexford, #23)
TR No Man's Nightingale (Inspector Wexford #24)
Margaret Parsons, a fairly ordinary housewife who, with her water board official husband Ron, has recently moved to Kingsmarkham, is found murdered in a field. Mrs. Parsons led an extremely uneventful life, being a lay preacher, but Inspector Wexford is intrigued when he is looking through her belongings and fine a number of expensive antique books all inscribed 'From Doon to Minna'.Who is Doon?
4* Going Wrong
4* The Keys to the Street
3* The Fever Tree and Other Stories
4* A Judgement in Stone
3* Fall of the Coin
4* People Don't Do Such Things
3* The Girl Next Door
2* To Fear a Painted Devil
3* Dark Corners
3* Live Flesh
4* The St. Zita Society
Inspector Wexford series:
3* From Doon With Death (Inspector Wexford, #1)
3* Some Lie and Some Die (Inspector Wexford, #8)
3* Shake Hands Forever (Inspector Wexford, #9)
3* A Sleeping Life (Inspector Wexford, #10)
3* The Veiled One (Inspector Wexford, #14)
4* Kissing the Gunner's Daughter (Inspector Wexford, #15)
3* Harm Done (Inspector Wexford, #18)
3* The Babes in the Wood (Inspector Wexford, #19)
3* End in Tears (Inspector Wexford, #20)
TR A New Lease of Death (Inspector Wexford, #2)
TR Wolf to the Slaughter (Inspector Wexford, #3)
TR The Best Man to Die (Inspector Wexford, #4)
TR A Guilty Thing Surprised (Inspector Wexford, #5)
TR No More Dying Then (Inspector Wexford, #6)
TR Murder Being Once Done (Inspector Wexford, #7)
TR Death Notes (Inspector Wexford, #11)
TR Speaker of Mandarin (Inspector Wexford, #12)
TR An Unkindness of Ravens (Inspector Wexford, #13)
TR Simisola (Inspector Wexford, #16)
TR Road Rage (Inspector Wexford, #17)
TR Not in the Flesh (Inspector Wexford, #21)
TR The Monster in the Box (Inspector Wexford, #22)
TR The Vault (Inspector Wexford, #23)
TR No Man's Nightingale (Inspector Wexford #24)
June 13, 2024
This is the first of the Inspector Wexford series, published in 1964, and Ruth Rendell’s debut as an author.
In her 2014 Afterword, she describes it as a historical novel, and I enjoyed this aspect. From a monotone backcloth of Fifties austerity it ushers centre stage a colourful tale of Sixties promiscuity.
She also remarks upon her discovery that she was able to create dramatic tension. In general, I concur – I have devoured her standalone suspense novels and rate some of them among the best fiction I have read.
But mystery was never her forte – and From Doon with Death lacks the tightly woven plot and relentless character incrimination of a good detective story. I have found this a common feature (or failing) of several of the Wexford series.
In this respect, as writers, she and Agatha Christie were polar opposites. Christie’s plots are legendary, but she missed so many open goals when it came to injecting jeopardy that I can only assume she eschewed them on purpose – why mar an enthralling mystery by putting your reader on tenterhooks?
In From Doon with Death a good degree of the mystery aspect hangs on a plot twist that was perhaps innovative in its day (much like in Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd); meanwhile the nascent Wexford is a brusque and bad-tempered character whom the author confesses to modifying over time to become a detective without the clichéd flaws and personality quirks of the genre.
An informative read; arguably essential reading for the student of Ruth Rendell.
In her 2014 Afterword, she describes it as a historical novel, and I enjoyed this aspect. From a monotone backcloth of Fifties austerity it ushers centre stage a colourful tale of Sixties promiscuity.
She also remarks upon her discovery that she was able to create dramatic tension. In general, I concur – I have devoured her standalone suspense novels and rate some of them among the best fiction I have read.
But mystery was never her forte – and From Doon with Death lacks the tightly woven plot and relentless character incrimination of a good detective story. I have found this a common feature (or failing) of several of the Wexford series.
In this respect, as writers, she and Agatha Christie were polar opposites. Christie’s plots are legendary, but she missed so many open goals when it came to injecting jeopardy that I can only assume she eschewed them on purpose – why mar an enthralling mystery by putting your reader on tenterhooks?
In From Doon with Death a good degree of the mystery aspect hangs on a plot twist that was perhaps innovative in its day (much like in Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd); meanwhile the nascent Wexford is a brusque and bad-tempered character whom the author confesses to modifying over time to become a detective without the clichéd flaws and personality quirks of the genre.
An informative read; arguably essential reading for the student of Ruth Rendell.
December 30, 2019
For a story published in 1964 it must have been quite shocking to readers. The characters in FDWD certainly weren’t immune to the effects of the conclusion.
I’ve read Ruth Rendell’s Chief Inspector Reg Wexford before and it had been too long. There’s something about his detached and unemotional demeanor that’s a pleasure to read. Not that I appreciate detectives only like him. I simply find him amusing. He’s none too easily disturbed. In the manner of a benevolent cat that astonishingly gives the mice free range.
Of course, Wexford is no pushover. He simply doesn’t let on to Inspector Mike Burden or anyone else that he’s interested. The closer Wexford comes to catching his prey the more he becomes excited.
The premise is wonderfully romantic and innocent. The darkness is there but it’s mostly gray in the fictional village of Kingsmarkham. One must pay close attention to clues. They are hidden well in a sparse yet rich narrative.
Ruth Rendell’s references to Victorian poetry of love’s longing plays well considering the grief-stricken husband who’s lost his wife. Read them and tell me they don’t add affects that would be hard to narrate without sounding like propaganda.
For 202 pages (my copy) it’s quite fulfilling for a murder mystery.
I’ve read Ruth Rendell’s Chief Inspector Reg Wexford before and it had been too long. There’s something about his detached and unemotional demeanor that’s a pleasure to read. Not that I appreciate detectives only like him. I simply find him amusing. He’s none too easily disturbed. In the manner of a benevolent cat that astonishingly gives the mice free range.
Of course, Wexford is no pushover. He simply doesn’t let on to Inspector Mike Burden or anyone else that he’s interested. The closer Wexford comes to catching his prey the more he becomes excited.
The premise is wonderfully romantic and innocent. The darkness is there but it’s mostly gray in the fictional village of Kingsmarkham. One must pay close attention to clues. They are hidden well in a sparse yet rich narrative.
Ruth Rendell’s references to Victorian poetry of love’s longing plays well considering the grief-stricken husband who’s lost his wife. Read them and tell me they don’t add affects that would be hard to narrate without sounding like propaganda.
For 202 pages (my copy) it’s quite fulfilling for a murder mystery.
September 6, 2020
I have finally given myself the gift of Ruth Rendell's classic Rexford mysteries, because I got the 1st one for a good price on Audible, read by Terrence Hardiman. Add him to my list of preferred readers, pleasantly British, expressive, with good variation between different characters.
The mystery itself was a bit obvious, but it was fun watching the detectives reach the conclusion that Rendell blatantly gave to the reader pretty early on. Her use of red herrings was more like being slapped in the face with a walleye. And I am usually the last to figure out who dun it.
It was still a well developed story, with good pacing and several "can't put it down moments." I am ready for the next Rendell book.
The mystery itself was a bit obvious, but it was fun watching the detectives reach the conclusion that Rendell blatantly gave to the reader pretty early on. Her use of red herrings was more like being slapped in the face with a walleye. And I am usually the last to figure out who dun it.
It was still a well developed story, with good pacing and several "can't put it down moments." I am ready for the next Rendell book.
May 2, 2008
I picked this up at the Book Thing and it was very good. I believe that Ruth Rendell is British as this book is set in England. Every now and then I had to re-read a few sentences to try and understand the British words. Other than that, it was a very quick read as it is only 200 some pages. It took me about 4 days to read. If you know me, you know that it's amazing I read a book in 4 days. It is a great murder mystery.
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