Why did I love this book?
Who doesn’t love a good mystery? Skelton’s Guide is the first of three mysteries featuring English barrister Arthur Skelton, who has just successfully defended the accused in 1929’s case of the century and is finding himself having to contend with autograph hounds, journalists, and clients clambering for his help. He, though, is remarkably self-effacing about his skills and charmingly in awe of his wife.
I loved that Skelton is based (very loosely) on real-life tall, nerdy barrister Norman Birkett, who famously defended a “domestic poisoning,”, along with a suitcase murder and a burning car case (the next books in the series). Can he get Mary Dutton off when everyone is convinced—and the evidence is overwhelming—that she poisoned her husband? A charming period mystery with characters I hope to see again. What a delight!
2 authors picked Skelton's Guide to Domestic Poisons as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.
Arthur Skelton has gone from unassuming Yorkshire barrister to front-page sensation, having won the case of the century. But January 1929 brings another high-profile case. Mary Dutton is accused of murdering her husband, although there are few people who dispute her guilt. Between practising his autograph and pose for hordes of journalists and fans alike, Skelton agrees to defend her, despite many considering the case to be unwinnable.
With a looming general election and an army of flappers set to cast their inaugural votes, both sides of the political divide are vying for their support by trying to turn the…