The Monster in the Box

An Inspector Wexford Novel

By: Ruth Rendell

Narrated by: Nicolas Coster

Chief inspector Wexford had almost made up his mind that he would never again set eyes on Eric Targo's short, muscular figure. And yet there he was, back in Kingsmarkham, still with that cocky, strutting walk. Years earlier, Targo stalked and taunted Wexford, daring him to press charges after a woman was found strangled in her bedroom. Over the years there are more unsolved, apparently motiveless murders in the town, and Wexford suspects that the increasingly prosperous Targo is behind them.

Investigate more cases with Inspector Wexford.©2009 Ruth Rendell (P)2009 Phoenix Books, Inc.

Critic reviews

"Rendell easily outdistances most mystery writers with her complex characters and her poetic yet astringent style." (Publishers Weekly)

Different.

A different story than most of the Wexford series. We find out about his early life and how he met his wife And still lots of mystery with surprises and a social issue too

Wrong narrator

I love the Wexford series, but this narrator was awful. Every woman had a simpering voice, Wexford sounded like an overbred public school boy, and the pace was deadly. For this book, I recommend reading the real thing.

Unexpected last words. Wondering and wanting more

Struggled to start pulled into the story by Randell, as she always does and keeps us with her through thick and thin. Going to start it again. Don't want to miss a bit.

Not Good!

It has taken me six months to finish this book, I had to stop listening then go back, the narrator was awful, the story line was interesting but not reverting...

Sloooow reader

Not one of Rendell's best. I found the reader hard to tolerate. Much prefer Simon Vance.

Disappointed

I am along time fan of Ruth Rendell and all of her "Inspector Wexford" novels and eagerly looked forward to listening to this one. The very poor reader spoiled it for me and I could not finish listening to it. I will borrow it from the library.

Narrator

Narrator's voice irritated me. Unable to finish book due to this.

Disappointing

Not up to Rendell's usual excellence. But the main complaint is the reader....never want to listen to him again. Blurred voice and sounded so old - made all the characters sound like they had one foot in the grave.

boring

The narrator is english and monotone. The content is boring

Ruth Rendell does not like or respect women.

Her female characters are neurotic, supercilious, vacuous creatures Sheila, Sylvia, Jenny, Hannah and Lynn are mind numbingly stupefying. Did she really think she was showing women in a positive light? This last one trashes Moslem females. I have read many author's from years ago, but these are a first. Dora is the only interesting or intelligent lady in the lot. It made one wonder about Ruth's demons. I am done, I cannot stomach the last two in this series.