False Scent

Inspector Alleyn Mystery: 21

ISBN: 0-7451-6609-1 Order from: Amazon.com

This conventional albeit well-executed mystery is filled with stereotypical but still well-defined characters.

Reviewed by David on November 15, 2003

Synopsis: This is an unabridged recording of False Scent. Mary Bellamy, a famous actress, prefers to hide her true age. Though still attractive, she is increasingly jealous of rivals and slights, real and imagined. When her elaborate birthday party ends with a murder, Superintendant Alleyn has to contend with a whole set of theatrical people, all expressing admiration but hiding resentments of the late star.

Full Review: Most characters in this mannered, well-structured investigation, are portrayed pretty much according to their stereotypes. Nonetheless the author shows significant skill in bringing the set roles to life, with manners, quirks and mannerisms that make them three-dimensional. There are several subplots and red herrings, but the pace is efficient enough to avoid straining the reader's patience.

The narrator here is skilled, but his range in portraying accents is limited, and sometimes makes it difficult to distinguish characters.

Overall: 5.5; Plot: 5.5; Characters: 5; Style: 5; World-building: 4.5; Originality: 4.5;

ISBN: 0-7451-6609-1 Order from: Amazon.com