Final Curtain

This novel is both similar & dissimilar to Marsh's other novels. It includes most of the usual cast of detectives (esp. Alleyn & Fox) and has a setting involving theatricals. It also includes both Agatha Troy (Alleyn's wife & esteemed artist) & references to Nigel Bathgate--both of whom add much to other novels in supporting roles. However, in this book, virtually the 1st ½ is devoted to Troy's interactions with the rather histrionic Ancred family--many of whom are theatrically connected. Further, its emotional content is not limited to the somewhat-over-the-top Ancreds, but also to the reunion of Troy & Alleyn after a WWII-related separation of 3 years--following their marriage. Thus, while this is a somewhat atypical Marsh mystery--the others either don't have Troy, describe the courtship, or include her as Mrs. Alleyn, this volume is the transitional one - demonstrating the strength of their relationship. Thus, it delves far more deeply than others into their feelings both for each other & for their work--esp. Troy's adjustment to the necessities of Alleyn's job as a detective--who must send suspects to capital trials. I believe that, therefore, this book is quite a success though for someone new to Marsh it might seem a bit drawn out and/or overdrawn. I'd recommend beginning with other novels. There are, however, collections that include this one which might help: The Roderick Alleyn Mysteries: The Nursing Home Murder; Death in a White Tie; Final Curtain & The Alleyn Mysteries: " Nursing Home Murder " , " Man Lay Dead " , " Final Curtain ". This mystery has the usual Marsh characteristics--lots of possible culprits, subtle clues, aristocratic characters, humor, eccentricities, great interplay between Fox & Alleyn, and a wrap-up at the end. Best of all is Marsh's use of English. My favorite quotes are: p. 235: "She also had an intimidating air of utter sanity" & p. 247: "I always think it's so unfair to call earthquakes & tidal waves Acts of God & not bumper crops & people like Leonardo & Cezanne" as well as the deliciously subtle scene on p. 16 in which it's said, "Not a second of the precious discomfort should be left unrelished" & "How unreal seem the activities of people one leaves behind in railway stations."

A very good big-family-run-by-hated-rich-old-patriarch mystery, complete with a gloomy old house and lots of poison. Has one of Marsh's engaging "mystery queens." While stereotypical, these characters are always amusing and witty, if nasty as well. Unlike Christie, Marsh often alluded to homosexuality in her books. Lots of Troy, which will be a plus or a minus depending on how you feel about her.

Troy Alleyn is commissioned to paint a portrait of the great actor Sir Henry Ancred. Though thanks to journalist/friend Nigel Bathgate she has some idea of what's in store for her, nothing fully prepares her for the amount of in-fighting, jealousy and histrionics the Ancred family can provide. Against this backdrop, Troy is reunited with her husband, Inspector Alleyn, who has been away on CID business for a couple of years. This book is one of the more interesting novels, in that: A) You get to see the beginning of the mystery from Troy's point of view. B)Marsh really knows how to write about awkward reunions and C) You get to see something of the artist's process (not surprising, I suppose, since Marsh herself painted). Another good read by Marsh.

Perhaps it is because I love the character of Troy, Superintendent Alleyn's wife, that this book has over time become one of my favorites in the series. But as with all of Marsh's books, this entry has twists and turns that left this veteran mystery reader guessing until at least two thirds of the way through. The first third of the book follows Troy as she accepts an assignment to paint the portrait of a famous Shakespearan actor at his family estate. The cast of characters is drawn vividly and humorously, and yet as the house party continues, an ominous tone begins to creep into the proceedings, in the best gothic manner.Of course, as Marsh wrote these books over the course of several decades, she allows the characters to age and mature as she does. In the previous several novels, Alleyn, the main detective hero of her novels, had been away from England doing Foreign Office work during World War II. This is the first book following the war. The post WWII reunion of Troy and Alleyn is therefore a highlight. Marsh never hesitates to let the real and messy emotions of her main characters from entering into the story. To me, this is what particularly elevates this book and this series from the sterile-solve-it-by-the-numbers mysteries that can sometimes be associated with early 20th century British mystery novelists.