Klowey’s Comments (group member since Jan 29, 2021)

Klowey’s comments from the Reading the Detectives group.

I found the characters to be very one-dimensional, with some of the characters' dialogue repeating itself in subsequent chapters. Kind of like beating a joke to death. I didn't like most of the characters and I didn't love any of them.

I don't see any real purpose in Frank's death since both he and Diane could have just stayed the whole time. I don't know why he had to die and the way it was handled was unreal, from police (non)-involvement to Diane not really seeming to actually care.

The major and Dr. Bailey spent most of the novel hidden away in the study. I can't believe they kept leaving the scenes to go there together. And Lady Majors-Gore was rude from beginning to end. Her behavior was rather unbelievable for someone who throws a party.

I also didn't think there was really much mystery. It became obvious very early on that Peter was the long-lost son. I'll admit I didn't quite know what was up with Cecilia, but the reveal on her wasn't spectacularly interesting or innovative.

The finding of the body of Thaddeus Ambrose was possibly the most interesting part.

All that said, it was a rather easy read and I read a chapter a night before bed. I think I almost enjoyed that - maybe because I was tired and not up for much concentration. And, I really wanted this book for the May choice, and voted for it. It sounded great and had killer reviews on Goodreads. Does anyone have thoughts on the great reviews and ratings on Goodreads? Did I miss something?

I finished reading it last month. I am ready to discuss but will do so on spoilers page. And, I'd like some other opinions first, like yours Judy. I will say that so far I felt the same way as you. Looking forward to more conversation on spoilers.

Judy wrote: "Good to hear you both enjoyed the first book in the series, Gary and Klowey. I agree with Tara it's a good series to read in order - I don't remember which all my favourites were but I know I reall..."

Thanks!

Tara wrote: "Christie is a tough bar to reach, but I really enjoyed the Marsh series. Her books are a bit uneven, with some really good ones, and some less so. Her best books center around art--either painting, or theater productions. I would also recommend reading in order, as there elements of the Inspector's life that are developed over time. My personals favorites are Clutch of Constables, False Scent, Photo Finish, Death in a White Tie, and an excellent swan song, Light Thickens."

Thanks so much for the information!

Tara wrote: "Gary wrote: "Better late than never, I am nearly finished reading/listening to my first book by Ms Marsh. I have a few from my days in the Mystery Guild book club. I think the first one I picked up..."

I have read nearly all the Agatha Christie novels and short stories and have been looking for another author (as good as she is). May be impossible, but someone suggested Marsh and I read A Man Lay Dead and was very impressed.

Can you tell me your impressions of her and her novels over the decades?

Gary wrote: "Do writers still try and write foreign characters speaking with accents?
"

Oh lord I hope not! The portrayals of Americans in their speech makes us sound like 1930's film noir males trying to act 'cool'.

Lady Clementina wrote: "I think this was possibly an influence of The Sheik which was published around the time; there was a more direct reference to it in Chimneys (?) as well.
"

Ah, good catch. And the movie came out in 1921, and from what I have read, Rudolph Valentino was insanely popular.

Frances wrote: "While a fun read, I did find some of the social attitudes-not just to marriage but the whole colonialism and class issues-uncomfortable."

Yes, I completely agree. She seems to have those elements in a number of her mysteries. I guess I'm just learning to accept that because she's otherwise so good.

Tracey wrote: "Her relationship with Harry seemed rather volatile, to say the least!"

I was a bit shocked when Anne revealed how immediately and intensely attracted she was to Harry. I wasn't expecting that. I wish he had been a bit more nuanced. Also people have mentioned that some of Anne and Harry's interaction felt like it was bordering on "domestic abuse" (verbally) even though their conversation was all in good faith.

All in all I really liked the book. I knew Colonel Race turned up later but even so, I was suspicious of him and wondered if there was some kind of twist coming, in terms of him switching from bad to good as a character.

I just read it two months ago and am also looking forward to the discussion! Agree it's not a standard type mystery.

I just bought the Kindle version of Mystery at Fig Tree Hall and see that there is no Table of Contents, more accurately, Chapters. Nevertheless, there are chapters in the book.

Do those of you who own the actual book have a Table of Contents/Chapters?

Susan wrote: "I will nominate The Mystery at Fig Tree Hall

THE MYSTERY AT FIG TREE HALL is the first book in the LILY GREEN mystery series of no..."

I don't recall seeing a book with such high Goodreads ratings and such glowing reviews. I would be up for this one!

The Moving Toyshop

I did a reread (hadn't remembered who did it which was great). I agree with Michaela about Emilia Fox's narration. I actually can't stand the way she does men.

As for the story, I felt the first few chapters really dragged, but then it picked up. I gave it a 3 star.