THE FOUR QUEENS OF CRIME

Sparkling wit, ingenious plotting, and a superb performance by Elizabeth Knowelden make this debut novel a listening joy. As WWII threatens, a fundraising gala to raise money for the Women's Voluntary Service is held at Sir Henry Heathcote's manor. The period's four most popular mystery novelists, Agatha Christie, Dorothy L. Sayers, Ngaio Marsh, and Margery Allingham, act as hosts. All goes well until the morning after the ball, when Sir Henry is found murdered. The first real-life female detective, DCI Lilian Wyles of Scotland Yard, accepts help from the four writers. Knowelden is outstanding as each "queen" offers her opinion. Knowelden's voices and accents are flawless. She highlights aspects of each writer's methods, dropping subtly placed red herrings seamlessly. Knowelden makes this absolutely delightful listening. S.J.H. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2025]