I enjoy locked room and golden age mysteries, but this was not satisfying. The plot revolves around a French magistrate who takes over the top job when his boss goes on vacation. On day one he is presented with a case of a family in a remote house being threatened with death, the son having already foiled an attempt on his life. In order to protect the family, the magistrate and a number of police set up residence in the home, but to no avail as murders occur (literally) under their noses.
I found the whole thing way too complicated and stagey. The solution to the first deaths is laid out (in minute, headache-inducing detail) about 2/3rd of the way through, then a new mystery unfolds.
It's great that Mr. Pugmire is bringing back these books in English, although this one is not a solid hit. (My favorite impossible crime mystery remains Hake Talbot's "Rim of the Pit.")
I found the whole thing way too complicated and stagey. The solution to the first deaths is laid out (in minute, headache-inducing detail) about 2/3rd of the way through, then a new mystery unfolds.
It's great that Mr. Pugmire is bringing back these books in English, although this one is not a solid hit. (My favorite impossible crime mystery remains Hake Talbot's "Rim of the Pit.")
