Wednesday, February 17, 2010

The Red Door by Charles Todd

This is an Ian Rutledge Mystery. Rutledge is an inspector who is still fighting the emotional and psychological demons of World War I. This mystery begins with the disappearance of a missionary, Walter Teller. Teller had become ill and was taken to a London hospital. When his wife finally took a break from his bedside, he got dressed and walked away. Rutledge questions the Teller siblings, including brother Peter Teller. Walter shows up again. Case resolved. Then Rutledge is brought in on the murder of a Florence Teller who had been married to a Peter Teller. Her husband had gone off to war and as she waited for him to return, she painted the front door red as a welcome sign for him. But he never returns.
This is a typical English mystery. There are lots of red herrings and we never know where the story is going to lead. The characters are well-defined and interesting, if not particularly likable.
I listened to the audio book (which was very well done) but we also own the book. If you are a fan of this genre you will like it a lot. If you aren't - find something else to read and you will be happier!

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