Abridged version - Well read but quite short !

Love this story and very well read - but I did not (entirely my fault) realise it was the abridged version. Cuts out far too much of the characters personalities - the story is complete - but lacks the character based feel of the original book.

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1 person found this helpful

Classic mystery, appealing detective, 5 star narrator

What did you like most about Artists in Crime?

Clever mystery, along the lines of Dorothy L Sayers. Have now listened to a couple of others by Ngaio Marsh and they have also not disappointed. Looking forward to listening to more.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Roderick Alleyn (the detective) - gentle, intelligent and humane.

What does Benedict Cumberbatch bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you had only read the book?

Lovely voice, and commitment to dramatizing all the characters subtly and skilfully. (Well, he is an excellent actor after all!)

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4 people found this helpful

Does it stand the test of time?

Very fine reading of a well written story. The whodunnit is not exactly surprising but makes sense, and the detective is clever. However, I do find it dated, and not in a charming way. The cruel treatment of the victim doesn’t seem to mean much to anyone, including the cop, because she is a ‘little animal’ ie poor. Hm. All a bit disappointing!

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Enjoyable listen with excellent characterisation.

What made the experience of listening to Artists in Crime the most enjoyable?

Excellent characterisation really bought story to life.

Which character – as performed by Benedict Cumberbatch – was your favourite?

Roderick - you can really immerse yourself in the rich flavour of this character.

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

I enjoyed the meeting of Roderick and Agatha in Suva.

Any additional comments?

Another enjoyable read from Marsh with the added bonus of the rich tones of Cumberbatch.

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Great!

Fantastic narration and thoroughly enjoyable story. It's a shame it's an abridged version, as I'd love to have learned more about the characters. However, it's well done and there aren't any glaring holes in the story. BC does a wonderful job of bringing the characters to life.

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love this novel

I really like this novel, mainly due to the characterisation and how well Marsh evokes the time, place and mileu. And of course the first meeting of Troy and Alleyn! Regarding this production, Cumberbatch is excellent as usual as the performer. My only complaint is the abridging. It retains the storyline but loses some of the evocative details so characteristic of Marsh's novels. Otherwise, brilliant all round.

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