Harper Audio (narrated by High Fraser)
The Murder of Roger Ackroyd is detective story mystery with loads of clues and red herrings to enable the reader to test their sleuth skills.
Roger Ackroyd is a a wealthy man who knew too much. He knew the woman he loved had poisoned her husband and was being blackmailed. She, as a result, took her own life. Before Roger has the final piece of the puzzle he is murdered, stabbed to death, in his study.
In the small village of King's Abbot, it's Hercule Poirot that has come out of retirement to work the case. He is assisted by the town doctor Sheppard and his nosey sister Caroline who provide a lot of speculation and humor about who might be involved.
Interestingly, the story is narrated in the first person by Dr. Sheppard. This is clue-based crime fiction at its finest. Memorable characters, a lot of gossip, humor and terrific twists. It's the kind of mystery that you want to go back and revisit for missed clues once the killer is revealed. First published in 1926, I can't believe it took me this long to read this one.
By the way, the audio book narration was very good. (This was a library audio download)
Rating - 4.5/5
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Writers & Lovers; Lily King
Blackstone Audio - 2020
(narrated by Stacey Glemboski)
Writers & Lovers, takes place in 1997 Boston. Casey Peabody is a 31 year old waitress serving Harvard elites. She is living in a terrible garage apartment and rides her banana bike along the Charles River. Her mother has died, romance is on the rocks, but, she's in love with two very different men. She has $70,000 in college debt and after 6 years, she is still working on that first novel. She's stuck and seems to lack direction as she mourns her losses. Will she ever find her way?
I loved the first person narration and the Boston setting. I could really feel the surrounding vibe of the area throughout this novel. Definitely literary fiction here but, the writing is clear, touching and funny, the flow was easy and I was quickly drawn into Casey's life and struggles. I enjoyed Casey's journey as she tried to wade through life and achieve her dream through self-discovery. The characters are quirky and I thought the down on her luck Casey was easy to root for.
The audio download from my local library was read by Stacey Glemboski who did a wonderful job.
Rating - 4.5/5 stars
Good to know you liked the audio of Writers & Lovers - it's on my list!
ReplyDeleteWOW, sounds like you found a couple of goodies!
ReplyDeleteThe Murder of Roger Ackroyd - such a classic! It's been a long time since I read that one. Christie did a great job with it and I think it ought to be better known.
ReplyDeleteI remember when I first read The Murder of Roger Ackroyd many years ago. It knocked my socks off. I did not figure it out until all was revealed. Agatha Christie really knew how to construct a mystery!
ReplyDeleteHi Diane,
ReplyDeleteI'm so very glad that you enjoyed Writers and Lovers. I purchased the hardcover when it first came out and haven't read it yet. Sounds like I'd love it, especially with the well-depicted Boston setting. (15 years since we lived in Canton, just minutes away from Boston.)
Diane, both of these audio books sound good! I'm glad you are able to get them from your library, too. :)
ReplyDeleteI've never read The Murder of Roger Ackroyd. I'll add both books to my list. :)
ReplyDeleteI was able to download the Lily King book immediately. The Agatha Christie one I've read ages ago. Thanks for the recommendations.
ReplyDeleteI have Writers and Lovers on my list.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed Writers and Lovers, and I'm glad to see you did, too.
ReplyDeleteThese both sound good. I haven't read an Agatha Christie in over a decade!
ReplyDeleteI agree, the Lily King novel was a fun and easy read with a great setting. Thumbs up.
ReplyDeleteGreat to hear you enjoyed both of these on audio!
ReplyDeleteI'm excited to read Writers & Lovers. Now to decide whether to read or listen!
ReplyDelete