Play Book Tag discussion

Whose Body? marks the debut of Dorothy L. Sayers’ famous detective, Lord Peter Wimsey. The novel begins with a baffling mystery: a naked man’s body is discovered in a bathtub with no identification, no apparent cause of death, and few clues. Wimsey, an aristocratic amateur detective, steps in to unravel the case, navigating London’s social circles and uncovering secrets along the way. The plot combines classic detective tropes with an attempt at witty banter and the early stirrings of Wimsey’s distinct personality. While Whose Body? holds an important place in the history of detective fiction, it hasn’t aged particularly well. The upper-class characters, including Wimsey himself, often feel artificial and overly mannered, making it hard to connect with them on a genuine level. The dialogue sometimes rings hollow, and the social setting feels more like a caricature of the British elite than a believable world. The pacing can be uneven, and the mystery, though intriguing at first, doesn’t deliver a fully satisfying or innovative resolution.

I had the same reaction. I am not a Sayers fan.

This is not my favorite Sayers novel. Lord Peter mellows in later books. I'm very fond of the books with Harriet Vane. I like the way they explore feminist issues. Harriet really struggles with finding that life/work balance within the glare of public opinion. I think Sayers put a great deal of herself into Harriet Vane.

Jgrace wrote: "This is not my favorite Sayers novel. Lord Peter mellows in later books. I'm very fond of the books with Harriet Vane. I like the way they explore feminist issues. Harriet really struggles with fin..."

Yes, I love Lord Peter but this isn't a great place to start. There is contemporary language about Jews and Blacks which is unacceptable today. I think the better place to start is the 2nd book, Clouds of Witness, which introduces the family and makes Peter more of a well-rounded character. And the books with Harriet are the best.