Crook O'Lune

by E C R Lorac

[annieb123]

Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.

Crook o'Lune is a re-release of a classic golden age mystery by E.C.R. Lorac published in the British Library Crime Classics series by Poisoned Pen Press. Originally released in 1953, this is the 38th book featuring Chief Inspector Robert MacDonald. Reformatted and re-released 11th July 2023, it's 256 pages and available in paperback and ebook formats. Many (most?) of these re-printings include an erudite and thoughtful introduction by mystery maven Martin Edwards and this one is no exception. It's always worth the price of admission to read Mr. Edwards' background information and context notes for these volumes.

This is a classic post WW2 mystery set in and around the Fells in Lancashire. MacDonald is visiting with an eye to finding a small farm on which to retire, and winds up being called in to help solve a local case of sheep theft, arson, and murder. There are hidden motives and interrelationships among the residents which come to light gradually over time.

The author was remarkably talented at descriptive prose and the sense of setting, the moors, the village, the people, are all finely drawn. The local accents can be a bit over the top, but they are faithfully rendered. I really enjoy reading MacDonald's interactions and witty dialogue with his colleagues and others he comes in contact with.

This is a solidly entertaining mystery and it wears its age (65+ years) surprisingly well.

Four stars.

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