Sarah Caudwell, Thus Was Adonis Murdered. Before her death, in 2000, Sarah Caudwell wrote four mysteries, each one a little jewel of comedy and elegant construction. It’s my fond wish that these will someday be published in a single omnibus volume. Alas, that day may be some time away; Caudwell’s books have fallen out of print in the U.S., although used copies are widely available (you’ll want the editions with the Edward Gorey covers). Begin with this one, which introduces Caudwell’s merry cast of young London barristers and their friend (and chronicler) Professor Hilary Tamar. Read it the first time for the mystery; then re-read it again and again for a first-class entertainment (CAAF).
Terry Teachout on the arts in New York City
