March 1934. Revered mystery writer Josephine Tey is traveling from Scotland to London for the final week of her play Richard of Bordeaux, the surprise hit of the season, with pacifist themes that resonate in a world still haunted by war. But joy turns to horror when her arrival coincides with the murder of a young woman she had befriended on the train ride - and Tey is plunged into a mystery as puzzling as any in her own works. Detective Inspector Archie Penrose is convinced that the killing is connected to the play, and that Tey herself is in danger of becoming a victim of her own success. In the aftermath of a second murder, the writer and the policeman must join together to stop a ruthless killer who will apparently stop at nothing.
©2008 Nicola Upson. All rights reserved. (P)2011 AudioGo
"A well written book about an expert writer"
Josephine Tey's mystery/detective stories are extremely well written, with interesting plots. This new series, which uses Tey as a fictional character, are also well written and plotted, and quite enjoyable as the reader imagines the real Tey involved in these fictional situations.
The books are narrated by the always excellent Davina Porter. I have listened to only the first book in the series so far, and am looking forward to the next two (I believe another has been written but not yet recorded). I am also eager for more of Tey's books to be presented on audio, as right now there are only two available ("Brat Farrar" and "The Daughter of Time.")
Retired "Okie" librarian & happy to have found Audible for good stories & staying in touch with new authors & books.
"Flamboyant theatrical murder mystery!"
Maybe, maybe not it would depend on their familiarity with Josephine Tay's novels.
The reveal of course! Like good old fashioned mysteries it comes fast at the end & evil gets its comeuppance.
A movie, yes. For Josephine Tey--Emma Thompson, the murder victim--Taylor Swift, the aging lead actress and her female lover--Helen DeGeneres & your pick. As for the male lead for Archie Penrose I see Colin Firth.
Bought this novel on the use of Josephine Tey as a character & a previous good review. I still think it is a good gimmick. This is light reading/listening, nothing serious.
"Loved this book!"
I usually find books that take real individuals and make them the protagonist in a mystery series pretentious and ultimately boring...square peg, round hole...but this...this was so good. The story was not overdone, nor were the characters (including Miss Tey) placed in unbelievable situations. The narration was excellent, not overly theatrical. I will definately be listening to more in the series.