Hand
In Glove by Ngaio Marsh: A Review by Warren Bull
Image from pixabay
Image from pixabay
Originally published in 1962, Hand In Glove is the twenty-second novel
by the author featuring Superintendent Roderick Alleyn of new Scotland Yard.
Marsh wrote thirty-three mystery novels and published as late as the early
1980s.
In this novel there are a
noblewoman with a reputation for throwing wild parties and changing husbands, a
angry young lord with bizarre ideas and a man who sends a letter of condolence
one day before the death of the subject of the letter. These characters,
however, are not as interesting as the detective who, like many of the
suspects, is a member of the upper class.
Marsh’s observations of the upper
class and their foibles is implicit in this novel. Her continuing command of
the English language and of the elements of a mystery are evident. A review in The New York Times notes, “She writes
better than Christie.” A good argument could be made for that review.
All in all this is a well-written
mystery that plays fair with readers. It is also, in my opinion, not her best
writing. I recommend it highly, but if you want to read just one of Marsh’s
novel, this is probably not the best choice.
I agree that Marsh is a better writer than Christie. Does she nail the manners and foibles of the upper class as well as Christie or Dorothy Sayers? Interesting review!
ReplyDeleteInteresting comment, Margaret. I would say that Sayers is the sharpest in presenting the upper class foibles. Marsh and Christie are more subtle.
ReplyDeleteWarren, I'm pretty sure I have some of her books somewhere. I'll have to look for them and start reading them again. It's been years and years since I read them. I love Dorothy Sayers, too.
ReplyDeleteAh, one of my favorite authors! I haven't read any of hers lately--maybe it's time to dig up one or two.
ReplyDelete