Vintage Murder

By: Ngaio Marsh

Narrated by: James Saxon

A touring theatre company in New Zealand forms the basis of one of Marsh’s most ambitious and innovative novels.

New Zealand theatrical manager Alfred Meyer wanted to celebrate his wife’s birthday in style. The piece de résistance would be the jeroboam of champagne which would descend gently into a nest of fern and coloured lights on the table, set up onstage after the performance.

But something went horribly wrong. Chief Detective Inspector Alleyn witnessed it himself. Was Meyer’s death the product of Maori superstitions? Or something much more down to earth?

©1937 Original Text of 1937 by Ngaio Marsh (P)2015 Hachette Audio

Critic reviews

"The brilliant Ngaio Marsh ranks with Agatha Christie and Dorothy Sayers." ( Times Literary Supplement)

"The theatre detail is engrossing." (Margaret Lewis)

"A far more ambitious novel than anything Marsh had attempted before." ( American Journal of Popular Culture)

"Her work is as nearly flawless as makes no odds. Character, plot, wit, good writing, and sound technique." ( Sunday Times)

"The finest writer in the English languange of the pure, classical puzzle whodunnit. Among the crime queens, Ngaio Marsh stands out as an Empress." ( The Sun)

Great Inspector Allyn mystery.

This is a typical Marsh yarn, with plenty of suspects playing to type. Red herrings abound! The reader’s mastery of accents is delicious! I thought that it was easy to keep up with the large cast of characters due to emphasis in the writing and in the superb narration!

Old School Mystery

Too complicated, too many characters. That said, the characters were well drawn and well developed. The narrator was faultless - super job of giving each character a unique voice. I got this as it was the selection of the month for a book club. I did enjoy it and would recommend it if you want a cozy mystery that is not easy to figure out.

How did he do it?

Ngaio Marsh has been a favorite of mine for many...years. I'm "rereading" her with Audible. The reader James Saxon is excellent!
Inspector Alleyn is recovering, and needing rest, he decides to visit another country. He happens to be present at a murder. Trying his best to not be recognized nor pulled into the case, he fails.
Take a trip with Chief Inspector Allyn. You will be glad you did.

Too complex

I usually enjoy Ngaio Marsh stories but this one seemed unnecessarily complex. There were too many characters with very similar personalities which made the story was hard to follow.

Excellent Narration of A Classic Mystery

Disclaimer: I am already a fan of Ngaio Marsh books, so am rather biased in regards to the tale itself. This tale is especially lovely in that it takes place in New Zealand in the mid-1930s, the language is quaint, and the scene descriptions delightful. James Saxon, the narrator, uses charming accents and voices for the different characters. He is now one of my favorite narrators and I shall look for examples of his work just for the pleasure of hearing his portrayals of other characters.10/10 recommend this performance.

A bit dull

I used to love reading Ngaio Marsh and I think several of her mysteries are more compelling than this one. But I’m afraid I found this one a little dull, Roderick Alleyn (who I considered a literary dreamboat) a little over the top, and the reader didn’t do much for me. He was skillful in his performance but he sounds like a rather fusty old-school BBC announcer.

Mystery Maven

Excellent series but this go around had, what I considered, a very annoying female character and the antics to get her to tell what she knew were ridiculous. Great narration, and with all of the characters was required.

classic

If you could sum up Vintage Murder in three words, what would they be?

Great story

What was one of the most memorable moments of Vintage Murder?

The interview between the main character and the doctor

What does James Saxon bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

I was a little disappointed with his voice. I picture a stronger more masculine voice.
The stories are terrific so I will purchase again and again.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Of course when he solves the case is the best part, although the picnic with the leading lady was especially descriptive.

Any additional comments?

I will listen to all of these books.

Vintage Murder

I am a reader who likes Ngaio Marsh more than Agatha Christie. I have read most of each author's work. But what are snapping eyes?

Quintessential Marsh

Vintage Murder is rampant with wonderful characters, significant detail that keeps you guessing until the last. Very Inspector Allyn. Very Ngaio Marsh. The narration is SUPERB! A good “ listen.”