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What Members Thought
Jun 27, 2021
Mardra
rated it
it was amazing
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review of another edition
Shelves:
classic,
mystery-or-suspense
If you like classic mysteries, SS Van Dine is a master of the “dime novel” that’s both timeless in observations of human nature, while also an interesting snapshot of its place and time.
I advise readers to keep a dictionary close at hand. (Paper or electronic will do.)
With quotes like: “Our Ciceronian friend is an unmitigated fashioner of deceptions.” And “It would appear that the late Alvin, like Warren Hastings, resolved to die in the last dyke of prevarication… Splendide mendax, what?” Not ...more
I advise readers to keep a dictionary close at hand. (Paper or electronic will do.)
With quotes like: “Our Ciceronian friend is an unmitigated fashioner of deceptions.” And “It would appear that the late Alvin, like Warren Hastings, resolved to die in the last dyke of prevarication… Splendide mendax, what?” Not ...more
Note: I accessed a digital review copy of this book through Edelweiss.
I found this book a real struggle. To me, Vance is a dislikeable character. He uses some hackneyed upper class phrases (supposedly picked up during time spent at Oxford), which just don't fit in, then further into the book a lot of "clues" are repeated. Also, all through the book the author keeps telling us how wonderful Vance is, to make sure we all know.
As this is the first in the series, I may at some time read the next one, as the actually plot was good and was definitely a mystery, but not ...more
As this is the first in the series, I may at some time read the next one, as the actually plot was good and was definitely a mystery, but not ...more
If Philo Vance has a purpose in life (and he probably doesn't) it might be to privately humiliate his best friend while saving him from public embarrassment. I didn't take to his condescending manner. He built a case for each of the suspect's guilt, but once he convinced his friend, Vance pointed out the flaws. I'm surprised their friendship lasts for a series of books. And the book drags while Vance philosophizes.
...more
Apr 22, 2023
Suzanne Robertson Moutis
marked it as to-read
·
review of another edition
Shelves:
mystery-classic
Jul 24, 2024
Gary Vassallo
marked it as to-read
·
review of another edition
Shelves:
physical-and-ebook,
paperback
