Macdonald Hastings (1909–1982)

Possible insurance fraud may seem less promising than murder as the basis for a mystery story but Hastings’ superb writing held my attention on every page, including the several devoted to a blow-by-blow description of a bulldog fighting a bull. A great read.

another forgotten star

I am disappointed that I have only 2 of this series

Having rad both, will be looking for more

Cork may be portrayed as almost omnipresent/ omnipowerful, and hence is not "naturalistic" but with only a little suspension of belief, is one of the most interesting characters i have come across

Having said tha it is another early 20th century depiction...I wonder why I like that era so much given I was borne in the second half of that century

perhaps it is in part because it is show more not today / and contains human features and none of the internet/ personal devices etc !

Big Ship
12 September 2015 show less

This is the last in the short series of books which feature Montague Cork. (American title - Cork on Location)
The book begins with Cork,who is the head of the Anchor Insurance Company,being interviewed on television about a collection of jewels which his company has undertaken to insure. These are on display in the studio to accompany the interview.
Shortly afterwards (needless to say)they are stolen and Cork attempts to recover them..
Despite the fact that he is quite an elderly,and not show more entirely fit man,he sets out on a long and dangerous journey after the criminals. There are shootings,fires,chases through snowdrifts and chloroforming galore.
Another triumph for Mr Montague Cork. show less

Montague Cork is the head of the Anchor Insurance Company.In this book he decides to investigate what could be a false claim made by a country landowner in the village of Bottle. The story begins as he drives his Bentley towards the village which is deep in the countryside.As a snowstorm develops he loses his way and then crashes. After a great deal of difficulty he finally arrives in Bottle itself. From then on he gets dragged further and further into the mire.
He comes across a large show more variety of strange and sometimes homicidal characters as well as a couple of helpful locals.
As always with this five book series,the stories are although unlikely,certainly page turners and a thrill a minute. Although he is not a likable character,Cork does have many admirable traits and by the end of each book the reader is left wanting more. show less