From The New Fiction Lists (Press, 12 September 1970)
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Summary: From The New Fiction Lists (Press, 12 September 1970)
The review covers several novels published in 1970, presenting a mix of crime, social commentary, and romance. "Sweet Poison" by Douglas Clark recounts a police investigation into the poisoning of a widow who owned a holiday camp, along with her dogs. The case, led by Detective Inspector George Masters, reveals the complexities of uncovering a murder when no poison is found, providing a detailed portrayal of various characters involved in the investigation. "Lovey Childs" by John O'Hara explores the lives of two central women in the international playboy set, creating a narrative that aims to critique their lifestyles but ultimately falls short due to reliance on contrived plot devices and underdeveloped social settings. In "Devil’s Goad" by John Laffin, the story focuses on Mark Thayer, an English poet who becomes entangled in the lives of twin students at the Sorbonne, capturing the turmoil of personal relationships against the backdrop of societal expectations. The novel grapples with heavy themes but lacks the levity to balance its intensity. "Ring In The New" by Phyllis Bentley continues the Oldroyd Saga, depicting the struggles of the Morcar family amidst the threat of a corporate takeover following the death of the patriarch, Harry Morcar. The narrative seeks to blend family dynamics with contemporary societal issues but is described as lacking in plot depth. Julie Burrows' "No Need For Violence" portrays life in an idyllic English village marred by hidden conflicts. The story begins with a magazine creator's article that leads to a murder investigation, skillfully executed by Superintendent Bowman and his team, revealing deeper character backgrounds and suspicions. "Echoes Of Celandine" by Derek Marlowe offers a unique take on the life of a professional assassin, Jay Mallory, who embarks on one last job while simultaneously searching for his missing wife. The plot combines suspense with sudden twists, keeping the reader engaged until the end. Lastly, "Stalk To Kill" by Robin Adam presents a less successful narrative with an unengaging storyline primarily featuring implied action and flat characterisation. Featuring a complicated web of spies and personal relationships, the novel struggles to maintain interest and coherence throughout. Overall, the reviews highlight a diverse array of stories that explore different societal issues and personal dilemmas, with varying degrees of success in execution.
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