J V Turner - Below the Clock - Collins Crime Club - 2018
Reprint of book first published in 1936
In the Detective Club/Detective Story Club series
The author also wrote as Nicholas Brady and David Hume. John (Jack) Victor Turner was his real name.
I can imagine that this book, describing the murder of a Chancellor of the Exchequer that actually takes place in the House of Commons (he dies whilst making a Budget speech) may have been controversial in it`s day, particularly since we soon learn that the Chancellor was far from being a model citizen.
The murder is investigated by eccentric Solicitor Amos Petrie and an increasingly care-worn detective, Chief Inspector Ripple.
Some amusement is provided by Petries` nonchalant approach to dealing with both Politicians and his investigative sidekick, but the author wisely avoids turning it into a comedy.
There are enough twists and turns to the plot to keep even the most ardent lover of old-style detective fiction happy, though it`s maybe a touch disappointing that our intrepid duo make a major breakthrough in the case simply because of a chance encounter with a character that has not previously appeared in the book, and who plays no major part thereafter.
Having said that, overall it was an enjoyable and absorbing read. Destined to become a personal favourite.
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