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Rumpole for the Defense  By  cover art

Rumpole for the Defense

By: John Mortimer
Narrated by: Frederick Davidson
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Publisher's summary

Whether he’s quoting Wordsworth or having words with a particularly obtuse judge, Horace Rumpole always knows what he’s doing––even if no one else does. In this delightful collection of stories, Rumpole straightens everyone out in the shocking case of a “bent copper,” gallantly teaches a professor of moral philosophy about blackmail, consults with the dear departed when a will is contested, traces the path of true love when a doctor is accused of murder, and (in the name of duty, of course) drinks to excess with a teetotaling member of the prosecution. There is even a rare moment or two when Rumpole finds himself appreciative of “She Who Must Be Obeyed” (Mrs. Rumpole), when she inadvertently provides some essential clues that clinch his cases.

Stories in this collection include “Rumpole for the Defense,” “Rumpole and the Gentle Art of Blackmail,” “Rumpole and the Dear Departed,” “Rumpole and the Rotten Apple,” “Rumpole and the Expert Witness,” “Rumpole and the Spirit of Christmas,” and “Rumpole and the Boat People.”

©1981 John Mortimer (P)1991 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Critic reviews

"These stories are well-written, interesting and clever. The wide variety of characters are…given life and entirely appropriate voice by Frederick Davidson…This is an excellent production, sure to be savored by listeners and good enough to listen to again." ( AudioFile)
“Rumpole is one of the immortals of mystery fiction.” ( San Francisco Chronicle, praise for the Rumpole stories)
“Mortimer has created one of the legendary fictional detectives…a barrister [who’s] as much a detective as Sherlock Holmes or Hercule Poirot.” ( Boston Sunday Globe, praise for the Rumpole stories)

What listeners say about Rumpole for the Defense

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what is not to love...

best in combination of mystery and humor in the stuffing Inns of the Court in London...

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another fantastic rumpole series

amazing, comedic, ironic stories from John Mortimer; still in his prime, absolutely fantastic! and the reading is wonderful in this version.

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Engaging. entertaining and memorable

This collection of stories purveys Rumpole at his best. Don’t miss the pleasure of listening in

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Excellent!

Rumpole always delivers. The performance was outstanding, similar to the weekly show. The short story compilation was perfect for commuting

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