Crook O’Lune by E.C.R. Lorac (1953)

Aikengill is a much sought after property in Lunesdale. Gilbert Woolfall has recently inherited this remote farmhouse, but has yet to decide it’s future. And there are many whose fates could hinge on his decision. But then Aikengill catches fire, with fatal consequences.

It just so happens that Chief Inspector Robert Macdonald has returned to Lunesdale to visit friends. He’s also looking to find himself a property to settle down in when he retires from Scotland Yard. But he is soon drawn into investigating the death at Aikengill, as well as some sheep stealing that’s been occurring in the area.

I’ve long been a fan of Lorac and the depth she brings to her stories. Whether it’s the busy streets of London or the quiet of the Lunesdale fells, through vivid descriptions, subtle detail, and authentic characterizations Lorac always brings to life a world in which the reader can immerse themselves. And Crook O’Lune is no exception. Here, she paints a vivid picture of post WWII Britain, giving the reader glimpses into the changing landscape of rural life in the early 1950s.

Lorac also gives us more Macdonald. If you’ve read Fell Murder (1944) or Still Waters (1949), your aware of his love for the countryside, farming, and farmers. Usually we experience him merely via his thought process regarding an investigation. But here, as he interacts with friends, colleagues, witnesses, and suspects the reader begins to see that there is more to him than just the Chief Inspector.

The mystery is complex, but easy to follow along with. It is also unfolds slowly, which may be a bit off-putting for some. I for one thoroughly enjoyed the more leisurely pacing, as well as all of the detail provided as it gave depth to the characters and their stories, both good and bad. While there are few red herrings and even fewer clues for the reader to piece together in order to uncover the culprit, the story and the final solution are all very plausible and satisfying.

A definite winner and now one of my favorites from E. C. R. Lorac.