When we think about the Queens of Crime we tend to think of Agatha Christie and Dorothy L Sayers, but there is another who must never be forgotten and that is Ngaio Marsh.
Success – Can I get a little?
Ngaio was born in New Zealand and lived there for most of her life. Between 1934 and 1982 she wrote 32 novels containing Inspector Alleyn. If you haven’t read any of her novels, you have to do so, now! Go on, go and get one now!
Gimme some of that style!
Her novels capture that splendid age of English clipped vowels and her mysteries are complex, detailed and intricate. Some of her work has been abridged into audiobooks read by some of the best actors around. They’re a pleasure to both read and listen to. My particular favourite is Death in a White Tie.
If you haven’t read any of this Queen of Crime’s work, please do so. If you’re an aspiring novelist you will learn so much about characterisation and dialogue and if you specialise in mystery writing, who better is there to learn from?