“The Wychford Poisoning Case” - Anthony Berkeley

(Sheringham book 2)

☠️ TWPC is a concoction of Golden-Age mystery, sly humor, and village intrigue. Despite the misogynistic jabs (more on that below), Roger sets out to vindicate a woman he believes has been falsely accused of murdering her husband. 

☠️ Roger spends most of his time expounding his own theories of the psychology of crime to his young acolytes. Regrettably, his actual sleuthing is done off-page so both reader and acolyte are left in the dark at crucial points in the case.

☠️ Still, TWPC was an enjoyable Golden Age read. I am looking forward to “The Poisoned Chocolates Case” as I’ve heard that’s one of the most popular in the series.

☠️ NB: Roger goes on a “women are idiots” harangue. But again, it was published in the 1926 so bear that in mind. Also, the over-the-top “goofing around” between the married Alec and Sheila, will raise some eyebrows. It’s certainly … unusual IMO.