In the Crypt with a Candlestick

By: Daisy Waugh

Narrated by: Penelope Rawlins

LONGLISTED FOR THE COMEDY WOMEN IN PRINT AWARD

Sir Ecgbert Tode of Tode Hall has survived to a grand old age - much to the despair of his younger wife, Emma. But at 93 he has, at last, shuffled off the mortal coil.

Emma, Lady Tode, thoroughly fed up with being a dutiful Lady of the Manor, wants to leave the country to spend her remaining years in Capri. Unfortunately her three tiresome children are either unwilling or unable (too mad, too lefty or too happy in Australia) to take on management of their large and important home, so the mantle passes to a distant relative and his glamorous wife.

Not long after the new owners take over, Lady Tode is found dead in the mausoleum. Accident? Or is there more going on behind the scenes of Tode Hall than an outsider would ever guess....

In the traditions of two great but very different British writers, Agatha Christie and P.G. Wodehouse, Waugh's hilarious and entirely original twist on the country house murder mystery comes complete with stiff upper lips, even stiffer drinks, and any stiffs that might embarrass the family getting smartly brushed under the carpet....

©2020 Daisy Waugh (P)2020 Hachette Audio UK

Critic reviews

"Fizzles, crackles and sparkles." (Elizabeth Buchan)

"An irresistible, high-camp crime caper - deliciously entertaining." (Andrew Wilson)

"A work of sublime silliness...witty, pacy and beautifully written." (Simon Brett)

Too FUNNY!

This is one most listeners will enjoy, whether a mystery fan or not. Hilarious and challenging to puzzle out, with fantastic narration, to boot.

Funny with bizarre characters and interesting plot

This is not a tidy book either sensible progression. No, it keeps taking you by surprise with outrageous characters do whatever they like with startling results. Recommend.

Daisy Waugh must have enjoyed writing this!

And I enjoyed listening to the faaabulous narration by Penelope Rawlins. What jolly fun, especially the liberal sprinkling of literary allusions. Trust it will become a series of books in print, audio and film.

Good Belly Laughs!

I thoroughly enjoyed this and will be reading the others. Narrator Penelope Rawlings' performances were spot on,
she had India down pat, as British Valley Girl which just cracked me up. An excellent light read.

Comes with a Ghost

I can see where this could be a love or hate book. I found it to be thoroughly enjoyable. A ghost is there as a delightful part of the family, other than that, it is not a ghost book with paranormal overtones. The book cover art is misleading. The ending is refreshing. I recommend hopping aboard and enjoy the ride.

This Had Me Guffawing Out Loud..!!

Penelope Rawlins was the PERFECT choice to narrate this particular book..!!.. Who knew she had so many funny people trapped inside her..??!!
The people that have given a poor review just don’t understand British humor,.. poor them,.. as I found it Uproariously funny.!!.. More please..!

So-so

The story had more promise that it kept. It drug on at times and at other times details were left out that may have made it better. Not one of my favorites. If it weren’t for the fact that I was reading it for a book club, I probably would’ve returned it.

Awful! Who wants a valley girl mystery?

Not even a smidge of humor. Avoid! Disappointing despite great possible characters and realistic plot.

Couldn't find any "hilarity"

Promising premise but very dull delivery. Any "humor" reminded me of the all-too-obvious Jim Carrey/Adam Sandler variety, which repels me. I like my humor a little more subtle. There were passages which were acceptable, but they were outnumbered by a lot of tedium.