An Expert in Murder

Mystery writer Josephine Tey travels to 1930s London to witness the final performances of her acclaimed play "Richard of Bordeaux," but her celebratory journey transforms into a nightmare when a young woman she befriended is brutally murdered. Detective Inspector Archie Penrose suspects the killing connects to Tey's theatrical success, as her pacifist drama has struck powerful chords in a war-weary society. When a second death occurs within the flamboyant theater world, both writer and detective must navigate the dangerous intersection of art, politics, and murder to unmask a killer hiding among the theater's colorful cast of characters.

Davina Porter's narration brings remarkable depth to this atmospheric mystery, capturing both the glamour and menace of London's theatrical scene with her nuanced vocal performance. She skillfully differentiates between characters while maintaining the story's mounting tension, allowing listeners to become fully immersed in the period setting. Porter's pacing expertly balances the investigative elements with the rich character development, making the lengthy runtime feel engaging rather than daunting. Her ability to convey the psychological complexity of both Tey and Penrose enhances the audio experience, transforming this historical mystery into a compelling listening journey.