Intruder in the Dark

Cyril Savage is killed while inspecting a country house bequeathed to him by a distant relative. The local Chief Constable believes it is more than random violence and calls in Scotland Yard to do a professional investigation. In due course Superintendent Littlejohn and Inspector Cromwell are sent to the hamlet of Plumpton Bois to look into the matter. Plumpton Bois is a country village whose residents generally shun outsiders like Savage. Littlejohn follows his usual thorough investigative procedures -- interviewing everyone connected to the victim and the crime--- until the true state of affairs is finally revealed. Along the way he and Inspector Cromwell meet several interesting and quirky characters and uncover their secrets. As is show more often remarked, Bellairs enjoyed writing about small English towns and the characters to be found in them. This book confirms the accuracy of that observation.

Written in 1966, "Intruder in the Dark" is slightly stale-dated in the 21st century and has many then-current British colloquialisms in its narrative which managed to keep this reader consulting a dictionary. Other Bellairs mysteries, such as those set in the south of France, may be more lively reading, but this one is typical of Bellairs's plotting and narrative style.

A pleasant read and it's recommended for fans of Golden Age of Mystery detective novels. show less

A very British murder mystery with a very fifties feel about it  (although set in the sixties). The villagers are colourful but not over the top.And it is a relief to meet a Superintendent  and his Inspector who do not have drinking problems, a messy private life, plenty of chips on their shoulders and are not socially inadequate. 
And let's face it, a murder happening in a remote village is most of the time a winner. 

Not his best, but a good ending

I have read a number of Bellairs books and found this a bit bland compared with others. It seemed to lack any real engagement with the characters. Even the key characters of Littlejohn and Cromwell, the detectives, showed little personality. On the plus side, the plot is good and the revelation of the murderer came as a complete surprise. An ‘okay’ read.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this title in exchange for an independent review.

Classic British Golden Age mystery. Not quite a cozy, but closer to Miss Marple than Poirot. This is a police procedural that depends more on relationships than forensics. Getting to know local history, gossip and help from the area constable are critical for resolution - but you still get all the clues to figure it out before the end. Charming and great fun!