A Study in Scarlet by Arthur Conan Doyle: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery Review from 1887

Arthur Conan Doyle, often celebrated as one of the greatest pioneers of detective fiction, is a name that mystery lovers hold dear. He’s best known for creating gripping detective stories with plots that pull you in and keep you guessing until the final page. Over his career, which spanned several decades, Doyle wrote a large number of detective tales that became incredibly popular. His most famous creation, Sherlock Holmes, has made him a literary legend, with his books selling millions of copies worldwide. His stories have been turned into plays, radio dramas, countless TV series, and blockbuster movies, bringing his clever mysteries to life in new ways. If you’re a fan of detective stories or just looking for an exciting read, Doyle’s books, including A Study in Scarlet, are a fantastic choice.

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Doyle’s own life had its share of intrigue, adding a layer of fascination to his legacy. While he didn’t face a personal mystery as dramatic as some authors, his journey as a writer was remarkable. A trained doctor, Doyle initially struggled to gain recognition for his writing, but the success of Sherlock Holmes changed everything. He eventually became so tied to Holmes that he once tried to “kill off” the detective in a story, only to bring him back due to public demand. This love-hate relationship with his most famous character shows how deeply Holmes captured the hearts of readers—a legacy that began with A Study in Scarlet, the first-ever Sherlock Holmes novel.

A Study in Scarlet, published in 1887, marks the debut of Sherlock Holmes and his loyal friend Dr. John Watson, two characters who would go on to become icons in detective fiction. This book is special because it introduces Holmes’ brilliant mind and unique methods, setting the stage for countless adventures to come. It’s known for its clever plot twists and a surprising reveal at the end, but I’ll avoid spoiling that here. Instead, I’ll share a bit about the story and what makes this book so captivating, especially for fans of Arthur Conan Doyle or anyone new to Sherlock Holmes. Whether you’ve read Doyle before or this is your first time, A Study in Scarlet is a thrilling read that showcases his talent for crafting smart mysteries.

Why Arthur Conan Doyle’s Mysteries Are So Loved

Arthur Conan Doyle’s books have a timeless charm because of his ability to create plots that keep readers hooked. His stories often center on a puzzling crime, and the journey to solve it is filled with clever clues and unexpected turns that aren’t easy to predict. Doyle had a gift for planting details that seem small but turn out to be key, making you feel like you should have solved the mystery, but leaving you amazed when the truth is revealed. This is especially true in A Study in Scarlet, where the ending surprises you in a way that’s both satisfying and thought-provoking.

Doyle’s characters are a big reason for his popularity. Sherlock Holmes, the star of A Study in Scarlet, is a tall, sharp-eyed detective with a brilliant mind and a love for logic. He’s known for his “deductive reasoning”—a method where he observes tiny details, like a scuff on a shoe or a smudge of dirt, to solve crimes that baffle everyone else. His friend Dr. John Watson, who narrates the story, is a warm, loyal companion who helps ground Holmes’ eccentric personality. Together, they make a perfect team, and their friendship has won over readers for generations. Their adventures have been adapted into TV shows, movies, and even modern retellings like the BBC series Sherlock, keeping Doyle’s legacy alive for new audiences.

Doyle’s books also reflect the time they were written in. A Study in Scarlet, for example, came out in 1887, during the late Victorian era in England. The story captures the atmosphere of that time, with foggy London streets, horse-drawn carriages, and a sense of curiosity about science and crime. This historical setting adds depth to the mystery, making it more than just a puzzle to solve. Plus, Doyle’s writing is straightforward and easy to read, even though his plots are clever, making his books perfect for readers of all ages.

What Makes A Study in Scarlet Unique

A Study in Scarlet stands out in Doyle’s collection because it’s the first time we meet Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, setting the foundation for their legendary partnership. The book is also unique for its structure—it’s divided into two parts, with the first focusing on the crime in London and the second taking us to a completely different setting, the American West, to explain the motive behind the murder. This mix of detective work and historical drama makes the story feel fresh and exciting. For Arthur Conan Doyle fans, this book is a must-read because it shows the beginning of Holmes’ career and his incredible skills. If you’ve never read Doyle before, A Study in Scarlet is a great place to start—it’s not too long, the characters are easy to follow, and the mystery will leave you eager to read more of Holmes’ adventures.

The story has been adapted into various formats over the years, including TV episodes in series like Sherlock Holmes starring Jeremy Brett, and even modern retellings in shows like Sherlock with Benedict Cumberbatch. These adaptations bring the story to life with Victorian-era settings and costumes, making them a great way to experience the mystery if you prefer watching over reading. Whether you choose the book or a screen version, A Study in Scarlet is a perfect example of why Doyle remains a giant in detective fiction—his stories are smart, his characters are unforgettable, and his plots are always a thrilling challenge.

Themes and Emotions in A Study in Scarlet

Beyond the mystery, A Study in Scarlet explores deeper themes that make the story even more engaging. The book delves into the idea of revenge, as Jefferson Hope’s quest for justice drives the entire plot. It also touches on loyalty and friendship, seen in the growing bond between Holmes and Watson, as well as Hope’s love for Lucy. Doyle uses these emotions to make the characters feel real, so you care about their struggles, even as you try to solve the mystery. The flashback to the American West adds a layer of historical drama, showing the harsh realities of life in a strict community and the lengths people will go to for love and freedom.

The setting plays a big role in the story’s mood. The foggy, gaslit streets of Victorian London create a tense, mysterious atmosphere, while the stark desert of Utah feels harsh and unforgiving, mirroring the characters’ hardships. The historical context of 1887, a time when detective work was still new and exciting, adds to the story’s appeal, capturing the era’s fascination with science and crime-solving. These elements make A Study in Scarlet more than just a whodunit—it’s a story about human emotions, justice, and the power of a brilliant mind.

Why You Should Read A Study in Scarlet

For Arthur Conan Doyle fans, A Study in Scarlet is a book you won’t want to miss. It’s the first Sherlock Holmes story, introducing the detective’s incredible skills and his partnership with Watson. The mix of a London mystery and a Western backstory makes it a unique read, and the clever twist at the end will leave you in awe of Doyle’s storytelling. If you’ve never read Doyle before, this is a perfect book to start with—it’s not too long, the mystery is engaging, and it sets the stage for Holmes’ many adventures to come.

If you prefer watching mysteries, adaptations like the episode in the Sherlock Holmes series with Jeremy Brett or the modern take in Sherlock with Benedict Cumberbatch are great ways to experience the story. These versions bring Holmes and Watson to life with stunning visuals and performances. Whether you read the book or watch a show, A Study in Scarlet is a reminder of why Arthur Conan Doyle remains a legend in detective fiction—his ability to captivate, surprise, and entertain is unmatched.

Spoilers Below: Proceed Only If You Don’t Mind Knowing About the Story

Here’s where the story of A Study in Scarlet starts to unfold. If you’d rather discover the plot for yourself, you might want to stop here and pick up the book or watch an adaptation. But if you’re okay with learning a bit about the story, let’s dive in.

The book begins with Dr. John Watson, a former army doctor who’s returned to London after being injured in the Afghan War. He’s looking for a place to live and meets Sherlock Holmes, a mysterious man who describes himself as a “consulting detective.” The two decide to share a flat at 221B Baker Street, and Watson quickly becomes curious about Holmes’ unusual methods. Soon, they’re called to a crime scene by Scotland Yard detectives, who are stumped by a murder. A man named Enoch Drebber has been found dead in an abandoned house, with no signs of a struggle but the word “RACHE” (German for “revenge”) written in blood on the wall.

Holmes takes the case, using his keen observation skills to notice details the police overlook—like the footprints in the dust, the type of cigar ash left behind, and the fact that a wedding ring was found near the body. He deduces that the killer is a tall man who arrived with Drebber in a cab, and the murder was driven by a deep motive, not a random act. Watson is amazed by Holmes’ ability to piece together the puzzle, and the two set out to find the killer. Soon after, another man, Joseph Stangerson, who was Drebber’s secretary, is found dead in a hotel, stabbed through the heart, with a similar trail of clues pointing to the same murderer.

The story then shifts to a surprising flashback, taking us to the deserts of Utah in the American West years earlier. We learn about a group of Mormon settlers who rescue a man named John Ferrier and his adopted daughter, Lucy, from starvation. In return, Ferrier joins their community, but as Lucy grows up, she falls in love with a man named Jefferson Hope, a non-Mormon. The community leaders pressure Lucy to marry one of their own, and when Ferrier and Lucy try to escape with Hope’s help, they’re hunted down. Ferrier is killed, and Lucy is forced into a marriage she doesn’t want, leading to her death from heartbreak. Hope vows revenge on the men responsible—Drebber and Stangerson—who were part of the group that destroyed his life.

Back in London, Holmes tracks down Jefferson Hope, who’s now a cab driver. Hope confesses to the murders, explaining that he followed Drebber and Stangerson for years, waiting for his chance. He killed Drebber with poison, giving him a choice between two pills—one safe, one deadly—and stabbed Stangerson when he tried to fight back. Hope doesn’t regret his actions, but he’s dying of a heart condition and knows his time is up. Holmes’ investigation proves his brilliance, solving a case that seemed impossible and showing why he’s the best detective in London.

Pairing This Book with Other Doyle Classics

If you enjoy A Study in Scarlet, you might want to explore other Sherlock Holmes stories like The Hound of the Baskervilles, a chilling tale of a cursed family, or The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, a collection of short stories packed with mysteries. Each story offers a new case to solve, with settings ranging from eerie moors to bustling London streets. Doyle’s vast collection of Holmes tales means there’s always another adventure waiting for you to dive into.

A Personal Connection to the Story

I’ve always loved Sherlock Holmes, and A Study in Scarlet was the first book I read in the series. I was hooked from the moment Watson met Holmes, and seeing how Holmes solved the case left me amazed. The flashback to the American West was such a surprise—it felt like two stories in one! Reading this book made me appreciate Doyle’s genius, and I can’t wait to read more of Holmes’ adventures.

Exploring Agatha Christie’s "One, Two, Buckle My Shoe": A Hercule Poirot Mystery Review

Agatha Christie is a name that echoes through the world of mystery and detective stories, earning her the title of the best-selling novelist of all time. With an impressive collection of 66 detective novels and 14 short story collections, she has left a lasting mark on literature. Her two most famous characters, the clever Belgian detective Hercule Poirot and the sharp-minded village spinster Miss Marple, have won the hearts of readers for generations. These characters have not only lived on through books but have also been brought to life on television shows and in movies, captivating audiences worldwide. Among her many famous works, titles like Murder on the Orient Express stand out for their brilliant plots and unexpected twists. If you love a good mystery where the criminal isn’t obvious, Christie’s stories, including One, Two, Buckle My Shoe, are a perfect pick.

Christie’s life wasn’t without its own mysteries. In 1926, she faced a personal scandal that made headlines. Her husband, Archie Christie, told her he was in love with another woman and wanted a divorce. Soon after, Agatha disappeared for 10 days, leaving everyone worried and confused. She was eventually found staying at a hotel, registered under the name of her husband’s lover. This strange event caused a stir—some people thought it might have been a publicity stunt, while others believed she was trying to frame her husband in a conspiracy. When she was found, there was relief, but the 10 days of her disappearance remain unexplained to this day. This real-life mystery only adds to the intrigue surrounding Christie, making her stories even more fascinating to explore.

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One, Two, Buckle My Shoe is a classic Hercule Poirot mystery that keeps you guessing from start to finish. Like many of Christie’s works, the story is filled with clever twists and turns, making it nearly impossible to spot the criminal right away. If you’re new to Poirot’s world, you’ll be amazed by his brilliance as he unravels the case with confidence. If you’re already a fan, you’ll find yourself eagerly waiting for his final explanation of how he solved the mystery. The book doesn’t involve too many characters, which makes it easier to follow, but the plot is still complex enough to keep you hooked. This review will give you a glimpse into the story, but I’ll be careful not to spoil the big reveals. Whether you choose to read the book or watch the TV adaptation, One, Two, Buckle My Shoe is a delightful journey into the mind of a master detective.

Why Agatha Christie’s Mysteries Stand Out

Agatha Christie’s books are loved for a reason—they’re smart, engaging, and full of surprises. Her ability to craft plots with unexpected twists has made her a favorite among mystery lovers. In One, Two, Buckle My Shoe, you’ll see this talent in action. The story pulls you in with a seemingly simple crime, but as the layers unfold, you realize nothing is as it seems. Christie’s characters, like Hercule Poirot, are a big part of what makes her books so special. Poirot, with his egg-shaped head and big ego, might seem quirky at first, but his sharp mind and attention to detail make him a genius at solving crimes. Miss Marple, on the other hand, uses her knowledge of human nature to crack cases in her quiet village. Both characters have their own charm, and their stories have been adapted into countless TV shows and films, keeping their legacy alive.

Christie’s writing style is another reason her books are so popular. She uses simple language that’s easy to follow, but her plots are anything but simple. She has a way of planting clues that seem unimportant at first, only to reveal their significance later in a way that leaves you stunned. This is especially true in One, Two, Buckle My Shoe, where the mystery unfolds gradually, keeping you on the edge of your seat. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her work, Christie’s mysteries offer a perfect mix of suspense, cleverness, and satisfaction when the truth finally comes to light.

The Setting and Background of the Book

One, Two, Buckle My Shoe was first published in 1940, during a time when the world was dealing with the early years of World War II. The book reflects some of the tensions of that era, with themes of espionage and patriotism woven into the plot. It was also released under two other titles, The Patriotic Murders and An Overdose of Death, which hint at the story’s connection to larger political themes. Despite the historical context, the mystery itself is timeless, focusing on human motives like greed, fear, and deception. The setting—a dentist’s office in London—might seem ordinary, but Christie turns it into the perfect stage for a complex crime.

For readers who enjoy historical mysteries, this book offers a glimpse into life in the 1940s, from the way people dressed to the social attitudes of the time. Yet, the story’s focus on universal human emotions makes it relatable even today. The TV adaptation, part of the Agatha Christie’s Poirot series starring David Suchet, brings the story to life with period costumes and settings, making it a great option for those who prefer watching over reading.

Spoilers Below: Proceed Only If You Don’t Mind Knowing About the Story

Here’s where the story of One, Two, Buckle My Shoe begins to unfold. If you’d rather discover the plot for yourself, you might want to stop here and pick up the book or watch the TV version. But if you’re curious about the mystery and don’t mind a few details, let’s dive in.

The story starts with Hercule Poirot visiting his dentist, Henry Morley, for a routine check-up. On his way out, he meets a former actress named Mabelle Sainsbury Seale, who drops a buckle from her shoe. Poirot, ever the gentleman, helps her with it, and they part ways. Later that day, Poirot gets a shocking call from his friend, Inspector Japp, who tells him that the dentist, Henry Morley, has been found dead—shot in his office. Poirot isn’t a suspect, as there were other patients after him, but the case quickly grabs his attention.

As the investigation begins, we learn about the other people who were at the dentist’s office that day. There’s Alistair Blunt, a well-known banker with a lot of influence, and a man named Amberiotis, a Greek spy who later turns up dead from an overdose of anesthetic. At first, it seems like the dentist might have made a medical mistake, accidentally killing Amberiotis with too much anesthetic, and then shot himself out of guilt. But Poirot isn’t convinced—it’s too neat, and he suspects there’s more to the story.

The plot thickens when the dentist’s secretary reveals she was called away from the office by a telegram, which turns out to be fake. Then, Mabelle Sainsbury Seale goes missing, only to be found dead in the apartment of a woman named Mrs. Albert Chapman—who is also nowhere to be found. With each new clue, the mystery grows more tangled. Who killed the dentist? Why did Amberiotis die? And what happened to Mabelle? Poirot sets out to uncover the truth, using his sharp mind and keen observation skills to piece together the puzzle.

The story introduces a few suspects, including a man who seems like the obvious culprit. But with Poirot on the case, you know things won’t be that simple. As he digs deeper, he uncovers secrets about the characters—some involving espionage, others tied to personal grudges. The book keeps you guessing, with twists that make you question what you thought you knew. By the end, Poirot reveals the guilty party in his classic style, explaining how he figured it out in a way that’s both surprising and satisfying. The final reveal is one of those moments where you might say, “I didn’t see that coming!”—a hallmark of Christie’s best mysteries.

Why You Should Read "One, Two, Buckle My Shoe"

This book is a great choice for anyone who loves a good detective story. If you’re new to Hercule Poirot, it’s a perfect introduction to his character and methods. You’ll be amazed at how he notices tiny details—like the buckle of a shoe—that turn out to be key to solving the case. If you’re already a fan, you’ll enjoy seeing Poirot in action once again, unraveling a mystery that’s as clever as it is entertaining. The story isn’t overly complicated with too many characters, making it easy to follow, but it still has enough depth to keep you engaged.

The TV adaptation is also worth watching. David Suchet’s portrayal of Poirot is widely praised, and the episode stays true to the book while adding visual charm. Whether you read the book or watch the show, you’re in for a treat with this mystery. It’s a reminder of why Agatha Christie remains a legend in the world of detective fiction—her stories are timeless, her characters are unforgettable, and her plots are always a delightful challenge.

Pairing This Book with Other Christie Classics

If you enjoy One, Two, Buckle My Shoe, you might want to check out other Hercule Poirot mysteries like The Murder of Roger Ackroyd or Death on the Nile, both of which are full of Christie’s signature twists. For a taste of Miss Marple, try The Body in the Library or A Murder Is Announced. Each book offers a new puzzle to solve, with settings ranging from quiet English villages to exotic locations like the Nile River. Christie’s vast collection means there’s always another mystery waiting for you to explore.

A Personal Connection to the Story

I’ve always loved Agatha Christie’s books, and One, Two, Buckle My Shoe is one of my favorites. Reading about Poirot’s clever detective work feels like a fun challenge—I’m always trying to guess the culprit before he reveals it, but Christie always manages to surprise me. The idea of a mystery starting in something as ordinary as a dentist’s office is so clever, and it reminds me how Christie can turn any setting into a stage for suspense. This book made me appreciate Poirot’s brilliance even more, and I can’t wait to read more of his adventures.

Hercule Poirot's Christmas (1938) - Starring Hercule Poirot - written by Agatha Christie

Agatha Christie is known as one of the most prolific writers of detective novels, and certainly the top selling author. She write during the early years of the 20th century and wrote for several decades, creating 2 of the most famous detectives (the more famous egoist Hercule Poirot and the village elderly spinster Miss Marple). These 2 detectives, in their individual stories delved into human nature unerringly, pointing out the evil being done by people, and finally pinpointed the people behind the murders (in most of these cases, these were murders although there might be several other crimes mixed in with them).
Agatha Christie had somewhat of a colorful life herself, atleast in parts. Her first marriage fell apart when her husband fell in love with another lady and told Agatha that he wanted a divorce; this in turn caused the mysterious lost days of her life when she disappeared for 10 days until she was finally found in a hotel room, under the assumed name of her husband's lover. Her second marriage was far more successful, involving some travel as well, lasting through her life.
Hercule Poirot is probably the more well known of the 2 detectives (she created some minor other characters as well, but they did not become so famous as these two). For comical effect, she also would add sequences when he would get affronted if somebody did not recognize him, or in the later novels, where the person thought that he would be so old that he would have died by now.




Hercule's Poirot Christmas was later published in the US under the name of 'Murder for Christmas', and a much later edition was sold as 'A holiday for murder'. Without getting into spoilers, the book is an interesting one where the enter detecting work is done in a house, with the murder having taken place in a closed room with the impossibility of anybody getting into the room.
Simeon Lee is very old, and very rich, and also very autocratic. He surprises his family by hosting a grand family get-together at Christmas where he even invites his long separated son, Harry, whom the others in the family really don't like - but hey, if the old man wants it done, then it will be done and he does not brook any opposition. He also invites his grand-daughter, she of Spanish descent, who has lost her parents and who knows that her grandfather is a very rich man. And yet another guest, Stephen Farr, the son of Simeon's former partner in the mines. And then the family hears him talking to his lawyer on the phone about how he wants to update his will.
And on Chrismas Eve at night, after dinner, there is an almighty commotion from the old man's room, with the upturning of furniture as well as a horrible scream. The door is locked from the inside, and when they break open the door, they find the room to be in a mess, as well as the murdered body of Simeon with large amounts of spilled blood. The police Superintendent was also there, having come earlier in the evening to meet Simeon and he takes charge of the house and the proceedings, him having apparently been called by Simeon because of some diamonds missing from the locker.
Any further details will take away from the mystery, just one line, not everybody is whom they claim to be, and Poirot has to unmask people as well as prevent further murders. A detective novel worth reading.

Death on the Nile (1937) - Starring Hercule Poirot - written by Agatha Christie

Agatha Christie is known as probably the most famous detective novelist, atleast in terms of the overall number of books she has sold. Her books are outsold only by the Bible and by the works of William Shakespeare, which is saying a lot. Although it is also true that she has written a large number of detective novels spanning a time of multiple decades. Some are truly exceptional, with just a few that may be considered below her standard.
She is most famous for creating 2 famous detectives - the egg headed Hercule Poirot, who is also seen as egoistical and very much in awe of his own abilities, and the quiet elderly spinster Miss Marple who seems to have an incredible grasp of human nature and the evil that resides in many people (and an stubborn ability not to take anyone's words at face value).
Agatha Christie also had a real life mystery in her own life, at the time when her first husband wanted a divorce from her for marrying his mistress. She disappeared for a period of 10 days despite an extensive hunt, with outrage from a public that by now was an avid reader of her books. She was found in a hotel under the name of her husband's mistress and seemingly suffering from amnesia. After she was found, the public opinion turned negative, with the belief that either she was looking to frame her husband, or this was sort of publicity stunt.
However, she had a lot of writing left in her and went onto write some of her most famous works, including the novel 'And then there were none' as well as 'Murder on the Orient Express'.


Death on the Nile was a novel featuring the detective Hercule Poirot, in one her typical trademark fashions. I will try and not reveal too much of the story so that if you have not read it, there is some suspense involved. There are some twists and turns, else why would you like the book once you have finished reading it; what I can promise is that most of you would not have anticipated the twist in the novel. A couple of the characters in the book, besides Hercule Poirot have made their appearance in other books.
The people depicted in the book depict mostly typical upper class British citizens, as well as some Americans. As was there in that time, the locals (the Egyptians in this case) really don't have any power or authority, and are overseen by the visiting Englishmen. However, do keep in mind that this was a book written from that time period, and the power and authority equations from that time have been depicted in the book.
The book is a story all about a vengeful women and how she tries to get her revenge. Jacqueline de Bellefort was poor but had a delightful and loving fiancee Simon Doyle, for whom she was trying to get a job. She has a very rich friend Linnet Doyle, who agrees to help her by giving a job to Simon. Fast forward some time, and there is a massive betrayal by both, since Simon breaks his engagement and gets married to Linnet.
What does a vengeful women do ? Well, try and make their life hell. So when they try and escape from her on a steamer river cruise in Egypt, they find that their plans were of no use since Jacqueline was also on the ship and proceeded to mock and taunt her, giving them no respite. Linnet asks for help from Poirot, but he declines, although he does try and caution Jacqueline about the path she is taking. There is an usual an odd assorted set of characters on the steamer, some of whom have their own small stories in the book.
Linnet suffers an attempt on her life during a shore excursion, and then on the steamer, she finally meets her end, being found in the morning, having been shot to death. Poirot now takes up the matter, trying to figure out what really happened and who killed her. The novel does make an interesting reading.

Cold Case (Published in 2008) - Authored by Faye Kellerman - A bit dull, but mystery is still there

It is a bit rare to see a husband and wife couple both writing books (and I would exclude those books where the couple are writing the book jointly), so the couple of Faye and Jonathan Kellerman are a bit unique. They are even more unique because they both have had books on the New York Times bestseller list at the same time. But, if you are reading one, the style of the other is different. I have read more of Jonathan, so it was a bit of surprise to read Faye, since you start thinking that maybe the style would be similar. Even though both their books deal with police and deal with murder, the action and pace in Jonathan's books is more than in Faye's books (or it could be that this was the case with just the books that I have read).
Faye Kellerman was born in 1952 in St. Louis in Missouri and went to UCLA where she got her degree in 1974, and then studied and became a dentist in terms of education, but never did practise. Instead, what she did finally was to become an author. Her most famous creation is the detective Peter Decker, who was raised as a Baptist but went back to his Jewish roots after marriage. There are a number of books that feature this detective, at last count the number of books starring him as the lead character being a total of 22 books.




Cold Case (also called The Mercedes Coffin) (spoiler alert) is about a connection between 2 murders and the police attempt to solve them. Why call it a cold case ? Well, the first murder is 15 years back, unsolved and the second one is a recent murder that seems similar to the first murder. The first one to be murdered was an apparently much loved teacher called Ben Little and the second one was a Hollywood music producer by the name Primo Ekerling. When a hot-shot and rich female CEO reads about the second murder, she sees that there is a resemblance to the first murder - and the teacher murdered in the first one was somebody who had helped her a lot. And so she decides to use the effects of money - promising the department a nice donation if they can solve the first murder, after a period of 15 years.
The department can always use the money, and so they decide to take the case, and detective Peter Decker is assigned; and he is not happy about having to jump to the command of a moneybag, but then the money is important. He does see that there does seem to be a connection; and resolving cold cases is always morally satisfying for a detective. He sets about starting the investigation, although it can be a bit tricky. The then police detectives have retired, and even though one of them is cooperative, the other one is not, and suspiciously dies of a suicide within 12 hours of the discussion. Over a period of time as he does the investigation, he figures out that there are connections. There is some amount of cross-region police politics that he has to handle, and his daughter is also now a police detective, Cindy Kutiel, whose superior office also needs to be handled politely.
The book does take the reader to a climax that can be unexpected, but it is a slow book, and I almost put it down; it did not generate the same kind of enthusiasm and tension which can keep me gripped to a book till I finish reading it.

The Private Patient (Published in 2008) - Authored by P D James - Murder in a plastic surgery clinic

In 2008, P.D James published her last, till date novel starring the familiar and constant Scotland Yard Detective, Commander Adam Dalgliesh. At 88 years of age, Dame James still has her wits about her and even though the language and speech is of an era long forgotten, the story - Private Patient is an interesting read in complete P. D. James style.
The book is set in an old house – the Cheverell Manor, which has now been renovated and converted into a clinic discretely offering plastic surgery to the rich and famous. The clinic belongs to a famous plastic surgeon by the name of George Chandler-Powell. And as the title of the book suggests, the names of the patients are strictly confidential. So when an investigative journalist by the name of Rhoda Gradwyn goes to get a scar removed, she is looking forward to a week of relaxation and recovery. However, two days into her surgery, she is murdered, by someone wearing the same kind of latex gloves that are available at Cheverell Manor.
Commander Dalgliesh and his team of detectives are called in to investigate. Where initially no suspects seem to exist, gradually Dalgliesh and his DI’s peel away secret after secret and probe into the past of the victim and the backgrounds of the Manor’s staff and doctors, to reveal an extremely large list of suspects. And as in most of her books, James also throws in a little journey back to a bygone era, where a lynching 350 years ago is somehow connected to present day events.




Suspects range from a deceased uncle, Peregrine; whose deposition would affect the members of the staff in the clinic, to an old lady, whose family had to sell the Manor to the wealthy doctor, as she continues to be a part of the household. While the investigation is underway, yet another murder takes place in the Manor, and Dalgliesh must act quickly to reveal the identity of the murderer. As always, James has put this horrible crime too in a beautiful setting, with vivid descriptions of the house, and all of Dalgliesh’s questioning being conducted in a stately library room in the manor.
If Dalgliesh is not at his intuitive best in this book, it may be because he has other things on his mind, like retirement and settling down with Emma. His relation with Emma grows in importance, which would not have been a problem had it not resulted in the plot losing track of its main victim.
While the book is not James’ best work, it is not a bad read either. However, unlike some of her older books, James does not seem to elaborate the mystery solving process being undertaken. Where in her previous books, the evidence and truth came out as a result of police procedures, the last book and this one seem to fold in on themselves. The only way Adam Dalgliesh unearths the identity of the murderer is through interviews and self-reflection at the end of the day. Maybe James does not know the present day procedures being followed, but as a result the story does not sound as convincing either.
As a James fan one would not mind the language and tone in general of her books. But, for a new reader to read about present day people and settings, in a language as flowery and old as Queen Victoria is totally out of place.  Plot wise the book is the usual James style writing, with a not-too-likable victim, suspects who are hostile and do not divulge much and the field trip back in time to unearth some secret which weighs in today. And let’s not forget a second murder. It is not a bad format, but one that is well known to all James fans.

The Lighthouse (published in 2005) - Authored by P D James - Death in a remote lighthouse

The Lighthouse is the thirteenth book in the Adam Dalgliesh series, written by P. D. James. Released in 2005, the book is about the murder of a famous novelist on a secluded island which is a recreational haven for the rich and powerful. Like her other books, in this book too James has taken the underlying theme of murder in a closed confined space with a set number of suspects. Along with her books, James is also making her protagonist grow and evolve. Dalgliesh has come a long way from the widower in the 80’s to a man who is now worried about commitment issues to the lovely Dr. Emma Lavenham.
The story takes off with famous novelist Oliver Nathan travelling to Combe Island, where he was born, to spend a few days with his daughter and copy editor Dennis Tremlett. However, when he finds out that the 2 are having an affair he explodes and tells them to get off the island. In the few short days that he does live alone, he manages to anger and agitate a lot of people including the local help, provided by the boatman – Jago and the handyman – Daniel, and a priest of the Anglican Church.
So it is not very surprising that such an obnoxious person was found hanged to death, over the Lighthouse situated on Combe Island. That’s when commander Dalgliesh is introduced to the story. His presence along with that of his team is requested on Combe Island, to help solve this case. However, Scotland Yard’s finest are not doing very well on the personal front. With Dalgliesh having problems in his love life and Miskin going through an emotional crisis, the book focuses on both, the mystery as well as the detective’s personal traumas.




Painstakingly and meticulously as always, Dalgliesh collects the clues, and in the process uncovers many secrets, one of which that dates back to Germany and World War 2. However, somewhere along the way he falls sick because of a gentleman who had come from Germany to visit the island. The man has SARS, and he transmits this disease to Dalgliesh. The whole island is quarantined with nobody allowed off the island. Just in time too, as yet another murder takes place. That of an Anglican priest who had strongly disliked the victim, Oliver Nathan.
So as to maintain a shroud of mystery, no evidence is allowed to be collected and the detectives are working on clues and good judgment alone. While Dalgliesh is in the quarantined sick room, Miskin and Francis-Benton Smith, his colleagues are left to solve the case. However, Dalgliesh gets feverish visions, which help him, piece together evidence that has been in his head all along and figure out who the perpetrator is. He immediately gets in touch with his colleagues and asks them to go find out if he is right.
The pace picks up, as the murderer knows that the detectives are on to him. And they finally catch the perpetrator trying to escape. With the case solved, and after he begins to recover and recoup, Dalgliesh and Emma realizes how stupid their fears about commitment are and the book ends with both of them deciding to get married.
Unlike her predecessors, James does not pose a problem of being completely out of touch with the real world, and even at 85, her books are eloquently written with perfect grammar and speech, even though this might feel a tad pretentious, and not realistic enough for the modern day setting. But, James is known as the Queen of crime, and rightly so. Even after decades of writing, James still keeps the suspense going in her books. She always keeps the reader speculating till the very end, and at the same time reminds them of the somber fact, that “you can’t get away with murder”.

The Murder Room (Published in 2004) - Authored by P D James - Murder in a museum

A detective novel published in 2003, by P. D. James displaying the detective skills of her favourite Detective-Commander Dalgliesh of Scotland Yard, The Murder Room is set in Dupayne Museum in London Borough of Camden. Like all her novels, James is partial to a murder in an enclosed space with elaborate setting even in this book.
While James is a crime novelist, this book highlights how James is essentially a War novelist, who speaks about the troubles and torments she had to face growing up and after marriage. The book with the story about a murder that takes place in the Dupayne Museum, which is described as a museum for relics collected in between World War I and II, is less a mystery and more an ode to that era.
The story begins with Commander Dalgliesh - he is already acquainted with the famous Dupayne Museum, which houses some of the most notorious murders that took place between the years of 1919 and 1939. The Dupayne Museum is owned by 3 siblings, who are in disagreement about selling the property and shutting down the museum. Upon the murder of Neville Dupayne, one of the three siblings, Commander Dalgliesh is called in to investigate especially when it is clear that the murderer has purposely replicated the murder scene to resemble one of the murders showcased in the Murder Room of the Dupayne Museum.




Commander Dalgliesh is however no longer alone in this novel. While fastidiously gathering evidence and interrogating suspects, his romantic relation with Dr. Emma Lavenham is also shown to be blossoming. With secrets unraveling and the truth coming to light, Dalgliesh learns that the victim had intended to shut down the Museum going against the wishes of it staff and his siblings. With meticulousness that can only be attributed to Dalgliesh, he painstakingly collects evidence and reveals the culprit.
Even though the topic broached by this book is a strong one, its projection through expressions does not make it realistic or believable. This is mainly because of P. D. James inherent dislike for slang language and wrong English. As a result, most of her characters, including thugs - who one would assume speak in slangs, speak impeccable English in the book.
Another important issue that comes to light in this book is James’ age and era. She tries to modernize the crime and the setting; however her characters speak in very Edwardian English. As a result the dialogue delivery is weak, even the speech in general is grammatically correct and impressive. And it is interesting to note that even though she has attempted to modernize the feel of the book, its essence is overall conservative, not just in the political sense, but also in the fact that most of the murders that take place are because James’ culprits do not want change.
A good read, but the settings and speech are a stark contrast to the attempted modern day plot and characters.

Death in Holy Orders (Published in 2001) - Authored by P D James - 11th book of Adam Dalgliesh

P. D. James’ eleventh Adam Dalgliesh novel is set on the wind swept shores of East Anglia, in an Anglican theological college by the name of St. Anselm’s. The church is meant for priests and “ordinands” training in the religious career. James has once again seamlessly put together a novel which is not only a mystery but also James’ efforts in compelling the reader to contemplate about faith, love, loyalty and personal responsibilities.
The novel begins with the death of an ordinand by the name of Ronald Treeves at St. Anselm’s. The father of this student is however not convinced that his son’s death was accidental, and he arranges for Scotland Yard’s Commander Dalgliesh to investigate the murder. However, upon Dalgliesh’s arrival at St. Anselm’s, yet another death takes place, that of Archdeacon Crampton. Matthew Crampton was an ambitious cleric who was extremely hostile in his behavior towards others. Hence, there is no dearth of suspects.
Dalgliesh is retained and asked to investigate Archdeacon’s death as well. Especially since it is widely known that the archdeacon was interested in closing down the college. Dalgliesh calls for assistance and requests DI Miskin and DI Tarrant to join him at Anglia. In typical Dalgliesh style suspects are interviewed and forensic evidence is meticulously collected and organized.




He gradually unearths secrets which are interconnected to the lives of many in St. Anselm’s. Including the fact that one of the students at the college is an unknowing son of a lay lecturer in the college, and upon closure of the college he stands to inherit the place through his mother.
Careful investigation and interrogations reveal the identity of the suspect. Side by side, James has created a love angle for her protagonist who develops a romantic relationship with Dr. Emma Lavenham, a visiting faculty from Cambridge.
Death in Holy Orders is an engaging read which urges the reader to ponder on psychological and moral aspects of the book. Written in James’ Victorian style with beautiful prose, the book yet again displays P. D. James’ mastery over the genre. Where most writers stumble along book after book, once their creativity has run its course, P. D. James is still going strong at the ripe old age of 80. Like every book, she always decides to change her settings, but maintains descriptive narratives of the psychology and personality of her characters.
Moreover, contrary to popular belief, James does not restrict her descriptions to the thinking and mentality of the middle class but moves with ease through all social classes and ages. The book is an interesting and entertaining albeit relaxed read from the Queen of Crime Fiction, P. D. James.

A certain justice (Published in 1997) - Authored by P D James - Murder of a lawyer

A Certain Justice is P. D. James’ 10th novel in her Adam Dalgliesh series. Published in 1997, the book is a clear example that James’ books have not lost their edge, but in fact showcase her penchant for developing an intricate plot, which draws on the complexities of the characters. James’ proves yet again that unlike any other author she has the talent to combine a good old detective story with the richness of good prose and fine writing skills.
In her 10th book, James’ has foraged into the world of London Law and the legal community. Her setting is as always dramatic – Middle Temple, the heart of London’s legal world. She begins the story with Venetia Aldridge, the Queen’s Counsel, who is a Barrister in London’s legal world, but from the onset, the reader knows what is coming for her, especially since James clearly states that Aldridge has only four odd weeks left.
In those four weeks, James describes everything there is to know about Aldridge and her life. About how she is disliked by many because she looks at every case as a means to further her own career and reputation, rather than as justice being served. And so, when she works hard and succeeds in getting a known psychopath by the name of Garry Ashe off the hook for killing his prostitute aunt, it is no surprise that in the short span of time following this victory, Aldridge is found dead, stabbed through the heart with a letter opener which is shaped like the scales of justice.




James expounds that every action has consequences. And when Garry Ashe takes up with Aldridge’s unhappy and unloved daughter, Aldridge begins to question her victories, more importantly the one where she got Ashe acquitted. The setting of the murder scene is through and through James. It is a traditional setting, mixed with the modern day and age. And in her typical style, there are at least a dozen suspects, ranging from Aldridge’s colleagues to the office cleaner and a sleazy Member of Parliament. But, where any other author would make this sound clichéd, P. D. James makes the reader feel like even though each story or character might be irrelevant to the case, they are all in their own aspect, real.
In A Certain Justice, James has beautifully woven together the exact precise world of forensics with well described characters who force the readers to question philosophical concepts of justice. However, her protagonist of ten novels – Dalgliesh, is only introduced into the story when it is three quarters underway. He seems to be oddly distant in the book, solving the murder of Miss Aldridge in a detached aloof sort of way. His presence seems to be more of a token than anything else. Maybe Baroness James is planning on retiring her protagonist in typical British fashion, and this is her way of introducing the concept. But, whatever the case be, Dalgliesh has not been as elaborately inserted into the story as James’ other novels.
Overall, the book is one of James’ finer works, with elegant descriptions of the Legal world in London. With well described characters that come to life, and scenes that add richness to the plot, James has once again shown her skills as the master of the macabre.

Original Sin (Published in 1994) - Authored by PD James - Murder around a publishing house

The 9th book in the Adam Dalgliesh series, Original Sin is one of P. D. James’ lengthier reads. Published in 1994, the book is set in a London Publishing Company called Peverell Press. The story, in complete P. D. James style is set in a closely knit community, with a given set of people. It’s always amazing to see how people react in her novels, especially with constantly erupting tensions and violence. However, unlike her other books, P. D. James has evolved to spanning an entire generation through this book.
Even though the story is about the death of Gerard Etienne, the son of Jean-Philippe Etienne who is a partner at the Peverell Press, the book goes back to Nazi Germany and Jewish massacre. Gerard Etienne is shown to take over the company after the death of Henry Peverell, the Managing Director of Peverell Press. Gerard is however merciless and brutal with regards to his plans for revamping the Company. He fires many long term staff and plans to sell the Venetian style building which houses Peverell Press.
An employee commits suicide after he was to be dismissed by Gerard. Subsequently, when Gerard Etienne is found strangled to death by a garish toy snake wrapped around his neck, there seems to be not much empathy or sadness for his death amongst the staff. Enter Commander Dalgliesh and DI Kate Miskin and DI Daniel Aaron. While Commander Dalgliesh investigates the murder in his usual style it is DI Daniel Aaron who uncovers records from the 1940’s which lead to the discovery of information about Gerard’s father, who is a serving partner at Peverell Press.




Here’s where the plot starts getting lengthy. James moves back and forth a bit between the present day murder and suspects, and the crimes committed in Vichy, France by Jean-Philippe Etienne in the 1940s. As the truth starts unfolding, two more people are killed, an author and one more member of the Peverell staff. The end is quite an unexpected twist, because James keeps you focused on present day aspects of the case.
As a loyal reader, one would plough through the book so as to get to the end, however, if such a style of writing was adopted by a new writer, the reader might lose interest and fast. But, reading the entire book does have its merits, especially since P. D. James rewards us with an unexpected culprit and an intricately plotted story. The characterization of all the suspects and employees is as always exceptionally well done, and the character of DI Daniel Aaron especially has been well developed. Since Dalgliesh has been described a lot, James focuses on expanding the range of emotions and character given to DI Aaron.
He is a thematic character who is probably the only one who appreciates the ambiguity he faces when confronted by moral issues. Overall, characterization and descriptions are done brilliantly in James’ usual style. Her prose and style of writing makes the reader want to read page after page even if it gets a bit lengthy in parts. A must read for mystery fans. It is only towards the end that you realize, the title – Original Sin is apt for the story told in these pages.

Devices and Desires (Published in 1989) - Authored by PD James - A mass murderer

Published in 1989, Devices and Desires, is P. D. James eighth installment in the Adam Dalgliesh series. James has like always done a wonderful job at presenting Dalgliesh’s cool analytical mind with her poetic prose style of writing. Through her books, she also gives the reader a chance to become the protagonist, by telling them things that Dalgliesh is unaware off. This book does not have much by way of a plot, and is rather slow paced, except for the very end where things suddenly pick up and take sharp unexpected turns in the story. But, that is all the more a reason to applaud James’ writing style, as she manages to enthrall the reader with her prose throughout the book.
The story of Devices and Desires opens with Commander Adam Dalgliesh having finished publication of his second volume of poetry. He takes a break and heads to Larksoken, a remote area in Norfolk, the location for a nuclear power plant. His recently deceased aunt Jane Dalgliesh has left behind a converted windmill out there. So he heads to the remote part of the countryside to tie up loose ends. While roaming about Larksoken, Dalgliesh literally stumbles upon a murder victim. The victim is the acting administrative officer of the Nuclear Power Plant, Hillary Roberts. However, there is no dearth of suspects, as most of her coworkers and neighbours strongly disliked her.
With the Norfolk Whistler, a serial killer who killed women in and around Larksoken, on the loose and Hillary being the least favourite person amongst her colleagues, Commander Dalgliesh is thrown into a strange web of secrecy and hatred. The only possible way out is if he solves the mystery of who killed Hillary.



But, since the local Police headed by Terry Rickards are conducting the search for the serial killer nicknamed – The Whistler, Dalgliesh tries to look into the lives of the other characters living in Larksoken, most of whom disliked Hillary as she antagonized and harassed them no end. However, Rickards turns out to be an old colleague of Dalgliesh and Rickards takes him into confidence, by sharing with him all they have found out about the serial killer. It is Rickards and not Dalgliesh who occupies a sizable portion of the book sleuthing and gathering clues on who the serial killer is.
Then the Whistler strikes again, this time a bit too close, one of the secretaries at the power plant is murdered and when Dalgliesh goes to investigate it, he finds that another death has also taken place. However, is this also the work of the whistler or someone else? Dalgliesh is led to believe that they may have a copycat in their midst.
It is noteworthy that the book does not have a lot of Dalgliesh’s crime solving skills in it. It is more about how different people get along with each other against the backdrop of a controversial nuclear power plant and a serial killer on the loose. And from there on it is about, how these people react and strike out at one another when one of their own is murdered. The book stands out because of James’ writing skills to elaborately depict how people are entwined in each other’s lives and how they try to live amidst chaotic circumstances.

A taste for death (Published in 1986) - Authored by PD James - 2 different victims

Published in 1986, A Taste for Death is a book by P. D. James where she writes about murder and how it changes things on various levels. Baroness James has yet again created a novel with not only in-depth insight into the human psyche but also an understanding of the varying social levels and how they interact with each other. The book is not just about the plot, which albeit is brilliant, it is about a whole lot more, with far reaching repercussions of murder and how no one who is touched by it, remains unchanged.
Through her protagonist, Commander Adam Dalgliesh, we as readers are forced to ponder on more complicated questions which arise as a result of human interactions in society. Can we realistically believe that anyone is innocent? After all, every person is guilty of something. But, as professionals who have a duty towards the law, Dalgliesh and his fellow detectives, Kate Miskin and John Massingham, believe that some semblance of law is better than no law, however wrong that might be.
The book begins with the scene of a double murder having taken place in Little Vestry of Saint Matthew’s Church. Two very different individuals are found dead, with their throats slit from one side to the other. One of the victims is a local tramp by the name of Harry Mack. But what is confounding is the identity of the other victim. He is the Minister for the Crown, Sir Paul Berowne. Commander Dalgliesh and his Detectives, Miskin and Massingham must follow up every clue and figure out who the culprit is, but more importantly find out what ties a Minister and a local nobody together.




Their investigation leads them to the Berowne family. Here James introduces the minister’s mother, his wife, his daughter, his brother in law and the Berowne family help. As a reader, we get to see an underlying theme, portrayed in this part of the book. The varying social dynamics which exist between the family and the help are not the only class differences depicted. Even the difference between the detectives and their family backgrounds is brought into the spotlight, with Miskin coming from a working class family and resenting Massingham and Dalgliesh, who come from privileged backgrounds.
Another way the social structure is highlighted is through the murders themselves. While everyone is interested in finding out who killed the minister, almost no one, save the police and Mack’s family want to know what happened to Harry Mack, all because he wasn’t from a “good” family.
The detectives trundle along at a pace that aptly displays the harrowing job of the police force. There is no sudden insight or magical way in which the mystery is solved. It is solved because of the hard work of the detectives and the meticulous piecing together of clues. Even when Dalgliesh knows who the killer is, he has to wait for some physical evidence to tie the murderer to the crime, before actually confronting him.
The strong point of the book is the characters. Not only are the Berowne family characters well developed, but as a reader James gives us an opportunity to learn more about the detectives, especially Miskin who is shown to be not only capable but also vulnerable, and far from perfect. But, she is shown to be learning from the other two, despite her dislike for Massingham. Massingham is also shown to be prejudiced against Miskin, only because she is a woman in the police force.
The book is, as always, written in James’ poetic style, to allow the readers to lose themselves in a world of complicated plots and complex relationships. The book keeps you thinking well after the end, which is what a writer aspires to achieve. So, all in all, it is definitely a must read.

Death of an Expert Witness (Published in 1977) - Authored by PD James - A series of deaths

Death of an Expert Witness is yet another P. D. James novel. Published in 1977, the book explores the world of forensics. James in her usual fashion has expertly involved the reader in trying to deduce the murder of an expert witness. In most of her books, James relies on her vast experience in the civil administrative field. And this book is no different.
The story takes place in Chevisham, England in the late twentieth century. However, the book doesn’t open with the murder of the expert witness, but that of a young girl, who is not the focus of the book. Her murder is only used as a means to introduce the readers to the world of forensics, and the forensic laboratory along with its staff. As the title suggests, the book is about the murder of Expert witness, Dr. Lorrimer.
Dr. Edwin Lorrimer is a well respected forensic expert. However, reputable and well-liked are two very different things. Dr. Lorrimer is shown to have been a petty, vindictive, bad tempered man, who has insulted many people over the years. As a result the list of suspects who wished him dead and hated his guts in general is quite long. What’s more, most of these suspects are either police officials or forensic scientists; most of whom know the inner workings of the system. As a result, there are hardly any clues to go by.
Commander Dalgliesh from Scotland Yard is called in to investigate the murder. Dalgliesh along with his associate, Detective Investigator John Massingham tries to deduce who could have killed the expert witness. Before that can be accomplished the killer strikes again and one of Dalgliesh’s suspects, Stella Mawson is found dead.




With not much by way of physical evidence and loads of suspects with strong motives, the book is a brilliant portrayal of James’ writing skills. Dalgliesh can only study all the suspects, each of whom are highly intelligent beings and make deductions through insightful observations of human behavior. He painstakingly gathers every clue and piece of evidence to try and put together the identity of the murderer. As always, he does so in typical Dalgliesh style.
Eventually, it is Dr. Lorrimer’s horrible and vindictive attitude mixed with the culprits need to save his dignity and family from the mistakes he has made, which Dr. Lorrimer threatened to expose, that led to Dr. Lorrimer’s death. James’ study of human nature is quite accurate and insightful. It makes the reader understand and ponder on why people do the things they do.
The story is memorable, and the plot complex. There are sub plots running through the story, but they don’t distract the reader from the original story. The characters are realistic and very believable. Each and every subplot adds a richness to the story, while the characters come together to create a suspenseful book. Death of an Expert Witness is yet another book with elegant prose that makes the reader enjoy not only the suspense but also the descriptions and overall feel of the book.

The Black Tower (Published in 1975) - Authored by PD James - Danger to Dalgliesh

Published in 1975, the Black Tower is the fifth in the series of Adam Dalgliesh books written by Phyllis Dorothy James, also known as P. D. James. The Black Tower, like its predecessors is not a thriller, but a slow mystery which starts creeping up on the reader, as the story builds, focusing on the setting and characters rather than the events that take place.
In The Black Tower, the Scotland Yard detective has shown to have risen through the ranks and is now Commander Dalgliesh. The book starts in a sober mood, with Commander Dalgliesh not being his usual robust and gentle self. This is because he was misdiagnosed with leukemia which turns out to be glandular fever. However, when an old friend, Father Baddeley, sends him a letter requesting him to stay at Toynton Grange care home in Dorset with him, Dalgliesh decides to visit.
Unfortunately, Father Baddeley seems to die of natural causes before Dalgliesh can make his trip. His body cremated and buried as well. But when the death of another patient, Mr. Victor Holroyd, takes place, Dalgliesh is on edge, as his training and gut instinct tells him that neither death was accidental or unplanned. Victor is said to have committed suicide, with 2 people having witnessed this. One was Julius Court and the other Dennis Lerner.




In spite of various clues which present themselves, the local police do not budge on its ruling that the deaths were not murder. After a few days, when yet another patient as well as the doctor’s wife are found dead, Dalgliesh can sit back no longer. Dalgliesh keeps poking around and connecting the sequence of invents, along with motives and soon comes to the conclusion that one of the suspects runs a heroin smuggling business, using the patients clinic and their biannual tour to get the products from outside the country.
When the culprit realizes that Dalgliesh has found out the truth about him, he tries to kill Dalgliesh, who leaves behind signs for the police to find and save him. James’ novels are not only about the ingenuity of the hero, in this case Dalgliesh, but also a strong villain or culprit, whose eventual defeat makes the protagonist look even stronger.
Better than the storyline is the atmosphere created in the book by P.D. James, which is unsettling to the extent that it’s borderline morbid. The entire story has an ominous feel to it. The setting is perfect, with broken locks, poison pen letters, secret lovers and the looming Black Tower. Overall the book is simple with exquisite James style prose. As a reader you are captivated by the writing and want to read more.
But writing in a manner which builds up to something, is not an easy task. It means that the end must subsequently have an even stronger climax. With James however, this is not a problem. The end is superbly chilling, and feels more so because of James’ impeccable calm and control of her characters, till the very end. All in all, yet another short, fast and brilliant read in the typical P. D. James style.

Shroud for a Nightingale (Published in 1971) - Authored by PD James - Murders of nursing students

Published in 1971, Shroud for a Nightingale is the fourth in the Adam Dalgliesh Series written by the Mistress of Murder – P. D. James. This book portrays a new side to the crime writing skills of James; with her using her vast personal experience (as a nurse during the War) to accurately develop a setting which involves nursing. The book is almost a Horror story with the mystery being solved in the end by the famous Dalgliesh. James has a lovely style of mixing the usual with the unusual. She will describe to the tee every character in the book. But locales and their description are sparse leaving the reader to imagine the places where the crime takes place.
The book takes place in the Nightingale House, a place which instills fear in the heart of the reader right from the onset. The women in the Nightingale House learn to nurse and take care of the suffering. However, when Miss Muriel Beale, the General Nursing Council’s inspector of the Nurse Training school comes to inspect the Third year students’ teaching sessions for the day, she is instead confronted with the murder of a third year student by the name of Nurse Heather Pearce.
Before the faculty can decide whether the death is a result of a prank gone wrong, or a suicide, another death takes place, that of Josephine Fallon. The schools surgeon consultant, asks the police to look into these deaths. Enter Scotland Yard’s finest detective, Adam Dalgliesh. Along with everyone else’s character, we now have Dalgliesh’s point of view and very strong opinions about everyone. Dalgliesh follows up every clue and red herring thrown into the story. He creates a work space at the foreboding brick manor known as Nightingale House. He interviews suspects, listens to the lies spun by them and discovers relationships and discrepancies. The mystery of the murders is only revealed at the end by Dalgliesh, along with the murky side of all the suspects, doctors and nurses.




Once the culprit is revealed, we feel bad for her. But, James has a wonderful way of making the reader feel like they should have all along known who the culprit was, given the fact that there were inconsistencies in the story, and things that didn’t add up in the relationships formed by the perpetrator. From the start, the book has a thrilling feel to it. The setting, the suspects, everything says horror. Another plus point of each one of James’ novels is her wonderful use of words you do not come across every day, for instance, antiphonal (meaning to recite or sing alternately, by two groups). James’ writing is old fashioned that way, but soothing in the general sense. She wants you to focus on imaging the scene of the crime but gives you a complete description of suspects so that you can try guessing who the murderer is. In that way, as a reader we feel part of the story and Adam Dalgliesh’s sleuthing team.  
What makes P. D. James’ novels masterpieces in mystery and murder, is the fact that the crimes in her book are not that of a random psychopath but are almost always personally motivated. This makes the stories all the more dark and thrilling.

Unnatural Causes (Published in 1967) - Authored by PD James - Killed by his own manuscript

Unnatural Causes, published in 1967 is the third installment in the Adam Dalgliesh series by P. D. James. The author, P. D. James acclaimed as the “Reigning Mistress of Murder” by Time magazine, uses the basic structure of a classic British mystery, and turns it into something more. Her writing style is not only civilized, but very perceptive. She has 15 crime novels and an autobiography – “Time to be in Earnest” to her name. In 1999, she received the Mystery Writers of America Grandmaster Award for long-term achievements.
The story in this book, opens with Detective Adam Dalgliesh, enjoying a quiet retreat of sorts at his Aunt Jane’s cottage, at Monksmere Head, somewhere of the Suffolk coast. P. D. James does a wonderful job describing the stormy seas that surround England. With long walks on wind swept shores and tea by crackling wood fires, James’ description of Dalgliesh’s well-earned break leaves the reader wishing they were in his place. However, when the grotesque murder of a famous crime writer - Maurice Seaton takes place, the reader is immediately transfixed, wanting to know what happens next.
With all the crime novels written by Maurice Seaton, he as the victim would never have imagined what his death could be like. His body is found mutilated, chopped at the wrists and floating ashore in a dinghy. Ironically, the scene of his murder seems to be described by him in his latest manuscripts, for his new novel. Seaton’s death causes widespread horror among his friends and neighbors, which include a cynical drama critic, a celebrated recluse, a rakish young heir and a terrified woman waiting for the killer to turn up at her house. Local Inspector Reckless has been assigned the task of finding Seaton’s killer.




Contrary to his name, Inspector Reckless is described as a very methodical and cautious man. He requests the help of Dalgliesh, who now feels that his vacation has sadly been cut short thanks to this murder. He involves himself in the case but only as and when the Inspector consults him. What follows is a thrilling mystery with unusual suspects and a fact made clear by James, that evil is lurking everywhere, especially in small towns and villages amongst a closed group of people.
Through Detective Dalgliesh, James uses the premise that the motive behind any murder is usually one of the 4 L’s, namely Loathing, Lucre, Love or Lust. And in this story, with P. D. James’ typical fashion of writing, it takes the reader a very long time to figure out which one is the motivating factor.
Like her earlier books, Unnatural Causes is also a very quick read. It is direct and to the point. This means that the reader can enjoy a good murder mystery without having to keep track of sub-plots and sub sub-plots, which very often prove to be nothing but frustrating and irrelevant.
Overall, Unnatural Causes is yet another interesting and entertaining book by P. D. James, but at the same time it teaches the reader a lot about human nature and provides psychological insight into the human mind.