Reviews

This was notably different - refreshing even - from the usual mysteries with an obvious main character who naturally takes the case upon him/herself. The main 'detective' here I felt wasn't formally introduced, at least in the way Hare writes this book. He remains one of the central characters, albeit with a more deliberate focus into his thoughts, but is barely distinguishable from the others, except at the end where everything falls into place thanks to his deductions. I liked how it was more of a domestic-political drama novel than a purely murder mystery novel, and how both elements remain tightly entwined (with the former taking the reins at the very beginning) even to the end (then again it seems inevitable since the drama had a major part in explaining the murder). Another thing which surprised - and gladdened me - was how Hare chose to leave murder waiting in the wings till 1/3 of the book where it officially becomes a murder mystery. Though the title clearly hints at homicide of some sort (the 'English' sort, presumably), I felt it more of a domestic drama novel with a dash of politics at the beginning. That was just the effect it had. However it is commendable to proceed as such as it left lots of room to explore the initial cracks, sour relations and tensions between the characters (which Hare does splendidly and succinctly with a touch of tangy wit), making the story so worthwhile reading in the first place and allowing me to genuinely 'feel' for the characters. Hare's mastery of prose really is quite wonderful especially the way he handles Dr Bottwink's words.

sadiqua_fatima's review

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mysterious fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.25

sophiemanhol's review against another edition

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mysterious fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

mike_brough's review against another edition

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4.0

One of the best Golden Age stories I've read this year - although 1951 doesn't officially count as part of the Golden Age.

I don't want to give away anything about the story line or the characters - once you read the book you'll understand why. Which doesn't leave much, other than the fantastic atmosphere, the palpable cold, the gripping and, for its day, fast-paced plot.

Well worth reading at this time of the year. Perhaps next month might be even better: the book is the perfect antidote to all that Christmas cheer.

kursten's review against another edition

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4.0

This was a cozy, Christmas mystery! This is a closed circle setting where everyone is snowed in with a murderer, so if you like that trope, you'll probably like this.

ndsafira's review

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dark emotional mysterious tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

amandajeanne's review against another edition

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mysterious reflective slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? N/A
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

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