Gwendoline Butler, ktorá písala aj pod pseudonymom Jennie Melville, bola priekopníčkou žánru policajných procedúr z ženského pohľadu. Jej diela sa ponárali do psychologických hĺbok detektívneho vyšetrovania a často skúmali zložité motivácie páchateľov aj obetí. Butler s citom pre detail vykresľovala napätie a morálne dilemy, ktoré sprevádzajú hľadanie pravdy. Jej schopnosť vytvárať vierohodné postavy a napínavé zápletky si získala uznanie čitateľov aj kritiky.
Detektivní romány anglické autorky uvádí na scénu svérázného londýnského policistu, kterého jeho smysl pro poctivou hru přívádí často ke konfliktu s nadřízenými. Příběhy se odehrávají převážně v divadelním prostředí, kde emoce, vzájemně napjaté vztahy a umělecká řevnivost vytvářejí vhodné klima pro zločin.
British writer Butler has crafted a grim tale that unsuccessfully blends murder with social commentary. In 1946, newly promoted detective-constable John Coffin arrives in Greenwich to take up his post. Soon after, the body of a young woman floats down the Thames to South London. It quickly becomes clear that this is no ordinary murder: the victim has been strangled, stabbed and mutilated. Attached to the body is a note reading "Present for my mother," a reference to former actress Rachel Esthart, whose son drowned under mysterious circumstances 17 years previously, and who has just received a postcard promising an imminent gift from the boy, whose death she has never acknowledged. Then two other bodies are found in the river, murdered in the same brutal way.
The Garden is a London enclave, home to best friends and busy career women Edwina, Cassie and Alice. The trio attends the wedding of Edwina's father to his second wife, where Edwina is preoccupied with thoughts of her pregnancy by a lover recently killed in an auto crash. But when the women gather after the reception, they discuss a more immediate subject: the fatal poisoning of another guest. Meanwhile, anonymous, menacing phone calls to Edwina increase, simultaneous with murderous attacks on her neighbors. The disturbances strain the women's friendship and, ultimately, the reader's patience, as repetitious details about dozens of unrealistic characters become confusing and irritating. When, at long last, the denouement comes, it's less a surprise than an anticlimax.
When the politician, Thomas Barr, and his secretary are found brutally murdered in scandalous circumstances, Detective Coffin is called in to investigate
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Set in a vibrant world, this novel follows the life of Charmian Daniels as she navigates complex relationships and personal growth. The narrative weaves together themes of love, ambition, and self-discovery, showcasing her journey through challenges and triumphs. Richly drawn characters bring depth to the story, making it a compelling exploration of human emotions and resilience. The author's engaging writing style captivates readers, drawing them into Charmian's experiences and the intricacies of her life.
Set in a vibrant world of magic and adventure, this debut introduces readers to Charmian Daniels, a young protagonist with a unique ability that sets her apart. As she navigates her extraordinary capabilities, she encounters a blend of whimsical creatures and formidable challenges, all while uncovering secrets about her past. Themes of friendship, courage, and self-discovery are woven throughout, making it a captivating journey for readers who enjoy fantasy and coming-of-age stories.
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Set in a richly woven narrative, this novel follows the journey of Charmian Daniels as she navigates complex relationships and personal growth. The story delves into themes of identity, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams, all while exploring the intricacies of love and friendship. Through vivid character development and engaging plot twists, readers are drawn into Charmian’s world, making it a compelling read that resonates on multiple levels.