Tag: Crime fiction

Crime at Christmas by C H B Kitchin

by Bookworm&TheatreMouse

December means festive reading; however, I have had this title on the shelf for two years and finally picked it up this year. I was drawn to this book because, on the cover, it had the lovely words ‘A Classic Festive Mystery’. I think there is something very romantic about the crime novels of the early 20th century. They are not, necessarily, written to shock but to tell a crime story for the enjoyment of the readers.

This novel did not disappoint. An out-of-town house (not quite country), an unusual collection of house guests for the festive season and cold, dark weather – seriously, what else do you need? Oh, of course, the injured gentleman detective (Mr Warren), just to ensure that a crime really will happen.

Now, I do not write spoilers because I want people to go out and pick the books up themselves. So all I will say is that this is a wonderful classic crime, with different strands running through to keep your brain working. One thing I liked the most about this book was it had the traditional gathering at the end for the big reveal. Although, even that had a mini cliffhanger which made the book so thrilling.

This book was published in 1935 and is still a novel that can be picked up and enjoyed today, especially on these cold winter nights.

Murder on the Orient Express – What a classic!

by Bookworm&TheatreMouse

This week has been a dream for me as an Agatha Christie lover – I have read Murder on the Orient Express, I have listened to Murder on the Orient Express (thank you BBC Radio 4 Extra) and I have watched Murder on the Orient Express. So this post is a little different because I cannot just leave it as a book review as I have so much love for this story.

I decided to read the book before I saw the film simply because I am a Bookworm and it has been a long time since I have read this title (or any Agatha Christie novel) and there was a beautiful edition published to go along with the release of the film which looked like a first class ticket to the Orient Express. So it is fairly simple, I loved it. I know the story, the characters and the twist but I still find it page turning because it is told in Agatha Christie’s unique style. Poirot is a wonderful detective and a lot of the enjoyment is being in his mind as he solves the mystery of the murder of the American on the Orient Express (which is surprisingly busy for the middle of winter). The thing I love the most about this tale is how it leaves you thinking about the conclusion – and the morality of the tale.

So, like so many Christie fans, I was intrigued by another version of Murder on the Orient Express. I have watched the old versions many a time and I have listened to the BBC Radio adaptation many a time too so I was not sure where else this tale could go – and how loyal to the book it would be. However, to sum up, I loved it. Branagh has brought a wonderfully romantic version of the story to the big screen. It is not word for word the book and it has taken a couple of liberties but at the heart it it still the story. This version has brought some humour to the story (often at the expense of Poirot himself but it is all affectionate) but there is clearly love for the work of Christie at the centre of the adaptation. The acting from the whole cast is wonderful, I would be here all night if mentioned each star by name, but of course Branagh shines as Poirot and leads the cast with expertise. Overall, I adored this film and would happily watch it again and again (just like I have done with all other adaptations growing up).

I cannot spoil the story for any of you but if you love a classic mystery story or you are not sure where to start I cannot recommend Murder on the Orient Express enough but please do try to read the book first!

One of Us Is Lying by Karen M McManus

by Bookworm&TheatreMouse

This was a title that had been intriguing me for a while. I had seen a few people out and about reading it and I had added it to my mental ‘to be read’ list.

So, when I found myself without a book on a recent day trip, this was the book that I picked up – and I am glad that I did. This novel reminded me of the classic crime of the Queen of Mystery, Agatha Christie. The reason I make such a bold statement is because the characters were so well developed throughout the tale. Each appeared to have no or very little connection to each other, yet they are drawn together by the mysterious death of their school mate, Simon. There is also a clever use of ‘secrets’ to help weave the tale as it reaches the conclusion. After all, will they work to protect them or free themselves from their burdens?

Although this is a YA novel that works well as an adult novel, I think those of us a little older than the intended audience may read it with a little nostalgia in their hearts. I felt there was a little nod to all those teen ‘friendship’ groups we loved growing up, such as Buffy and her friends (although this novel has nothing to do with vampires, other than a slight goth character), or those misfit teens we spent detention with in ‘The Breakfast Club.’

So, it you love classic crime and want to be reminded of those ‘popular culture’ teen years, then this is the novel for you.