Murder by Matchlight (Dover Mystery Classics) (British Library Crime Classics)

by E C R Lorac

[annieb123]

Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.

Murder by Matchlight is a reformat and re-release of a golden age British murder mystery by E.C.R. Lorac. First released in 1945, this edition from Poisoned Pen Press was released 5th March 2019. It's 264 pages and available in paperback and ebook formats. This book is one of the books in the British Library Crime Classics series and it's really nice to see these gems being brought back into print and presented to new readers.

As the others in the series, there is an introduction by mystery history maven Martin Edwards. As engaging as these classic mysteries have been, I have also looked forward in equal measure to Mr. Edwards' insightful commentary.

This mystery may well be my favorite by this author. It's cleverly constructed and written in a classic format. The murder victim is a widely despised "ne'er-do-well". The clues (and red herrings) are presented by the rules and the plotting, dialogue, and denouement are satisfying. The murder takes place during a London blackout during WW2 and the sense of place and atmosphere are palpable. The author makes some interesting points about the murder of one despicable man against the backdrop of WW2 and the blitz.

This is a relatively short novel and this edition also includes a short story from 1953, "Permanent Policeman" which is well plotted and also enjoyable.

Nicely diverting worthy mysteries. Five stars.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.