Murder by Matchlight

By: E.C.R. Lorac

Narrated by: Mark Elstob

London, 1945. The capital is shrouded in the darkness of the blackout, and mystery abounds in the parks after dusk. During a stroll through Regent's Park, Bruce Mallaig witnesses two men acting suspiciously around a footbridge. In a matter of moments, one of them has been murdered; Mallaig's view of the assailant but a brief glimpse of a ghastly face in the glow of a struck match.

The murderer's noiseless approach and escape seems to defy all logic, and even the victim's identity is quickly thrown into uncertainty. Lorac's shrewd yet personable C.I.D. man, MacDonald, must set to work once again to unravel this near-impossible mystery.

©2018 The Estate of E. C. R. Lorac (P)2019 Soundings

Good story, bad match

I have been enjoying the Lorac novels that have been recorded. I was disappointed in the nasal drawl that this narrator decided upon for MacDonald. Not a trace of the empathetic Scot in this characterization. Since his other characterizations were quite good, I stuck with it.
As for the story, aside from the mystery itself, I found the descriptions of wartime London vividly revealing. Here’s hoping more of her books will be recorded. Preferably with Kris Dyer.

top drawer characters

the complex background and variety of characters keep you thought bound. WWII life very real.

First-Class Narrator Fit for a Most Peculiar Story

I really cannot tell whether it is the story, or the narrator, which were more outstanding (or outlandish) - definitely a buy, and a must-hear!

Wartime London

Macdonald and friends investigate the death of a wastrel. The witnesses saw glimpses when a match was lit during the blackout. Lots of red herrings and good characters, well performed. Highly recommended.

Very enjoyable read

Good story. fine narrator and an interesting plot. I shall look for more from the author and narrator.