The Act of Roger Murgatroyd

by Gilbert Adair
The Act of Roger Murgatroyd cover
Good Books rating 3.5
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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  • ID: 8206
  • Added: 2025-12-20
  • Updated: 2025-12-20
  • ISBN: 9780571319800
  • Publisher: Faber & Faber
  • Published: 2014-07-17
  • Reviews: 3

On Boxing Day in 1935, a Christmas house-party at a manor on the edge of Dartmoor takes a dark turn when the body of Raymond Gentry, a gossip columnist and blackmailer, is found in the attic. The attic door is locked from the inside, and the only window is barred, leaving no sign of the murderer or the weapon. Among the guests is Evadne Mount, a renowned author of whodunits, who must use her literary prowess to unravel the mystery. The scenario is eerily reminiscent of the very type of mystery she herself would write, adding a meta-layer to this intriguing tale. The book is a clever homage to the classic whodunit genre, with a locked-room mystery at its core. Evadne Mount's presence adds a unique twist, as she must solve a crime that mirrors her own literary creations. The setting, a snowed-in manor on Dartmoor, provides a claustrophobic and atmospheric backdrop for the unfolding drama.

Reviews
Lynns Books · 2011-11-03
positive 4.00

The novel is a lighthearted and amusing detective story that pokes fun at typical crime novels. It's a quick and enjoyable read.

Lynns Books describes 'The Act of Roger Murgatroyd' as a lighthearted and amusing detective novel that takes a playful jab at the conventions of the genre. The reviewer found it to be a quick and enjoyable read, appreciating its wit and humor. They note that the book's charm lies in its ability to entertain without taking itself too seriously. The pastiche of 1930s prose is particularly well-executed, adding to the overall enjoyment. The reviewer also highlights the book's clever twists and turns, which keep the reader engaged throughout.

Quick quotes

    A lighthearted, amusing little romp of a detective novel.

    Takes a bit of a dig at your average crime novel.

    A quick and enjoyable read.

The Independent · 2006-11-17
neutral 3.00

The book initially flatters the reader's intelligence but becomes uneven in its pastiche of 1930s prose, with a narrative full of knowing winks.

The Independent's review of 'The Act of Roger Murgatroyd' notes that the book starts off well, flattering the reader's intelligence with its clever writing. However, the reviewer finds that the pastiche of 1930s prose becomes uneven, and the narrative is filled with too many knowing winks. They appreciate the book's initial charm but feel that it falls short in maintaining a consistent tone. The reviewer also points out that while the book is entertaining, it might not be as satisfying for those looking for a more substantial read.

Quick quotes

    The book flatters the reader's intelligence at first.

    The pastiche of 1930s prose is oddly uneven.

    The narrative has too many knowing winks.

The Guardian · 2006-11-04
mixed 3.50

The book is filled with dark humor and sinister language, making it an enjoyable read. However, it may not be universally praised.

The Guardian's review highlights the dark humor and sinister language in 'The Act of Roger Murgatroyd,' making it a fun and engaging read. The reviewer notes that while the book has its charm, it might not receive universal acclaim. They appreciate the clever writing and the playful tone, which sets it apart from typical crime novels. However, they also point out that the book's pastiche of 1930s prose can be uneven, which might detract from the overall experience for some readers.

Quick quotes

    With faint praise, no doubt, which may well be Adair's fate.

    The thieving is good dirty fun, the language distinctly sinister.

    The narrative has too many knowing winks.

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