New Releases by Dorothy L. Sayers

"The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club" by Dorothy L. Sayers is a captivating and intricately plotted detective novel that showcases the brilliance of Lord Peter Wimsey as he navigates the complexities of a puzzling case. Set against the backdrop of post-World War I London, Sayers skillfully weaves together elements of mystery, suspense, and social commentary to create a compelling narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The novel introduces readers to the enigmatic Lord Peter Wimsey, a charming and witty aristocrat with a keen intellect and a passion for solving mysteries. When General Fentiman is found dead in his chair at the Bellona Club, Lord Peter is called upon to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death. As Lord Peter delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of family secrets, financial intrigues, and long-held grudges that lead him down unexpected paths. One of the standout features of "The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club" is Sayers'' skillful character development, as she brings to life a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and hidden agendas. From the stoic General Fentiman to the eccentric members of the Bellona Club, Sayers creates a rich tapestry of personalities that adds depth and complexity to the story. Furthermore, Sayers'' meticulous attention to detail and clever plotting make "The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club" a masterclass in detective fiction. The novel is filled with twists and turns, red herrings, and unexpected revelations that keep readers guessing until the very end. Sayers'' sharp wit and elegant prose style further enhance the reading experience, making this novel a true delight for fans of classic British mystery. "The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club" is a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers with its engaging plot, memorable characters, and clever storytelling. Dorothy L. Sayers'' masterful blend of mystery, humor, and social commentary ensures that this novel remains a standout in the genre of detective fiction and a must-read for fans of the genre.

When General Fentiman is found dead in his armchair at the exclusive Bellona Club, what seems like a peaceful passing soon unravels into a perplexing mystery that only the astute Lord Peter Wimsey can untangle. As he navigates through a web of family secrets, financial intrigue, and wartime memories, Wimsey uncovers a trail that leads him to question the very nature of honor and duty. Dorothy L. Sayers masterfully blends wit and suspense in this classic whodunit, exploring themes of mortality, the aftermath of war, and the complexities of human relationships. In a world still grappling with the scars of conflict, "The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club" remains strikingly relevant, offering a poignant reflection on the enduring impact of the past on the present.

In Dorothy L. Sayer''s third Lord Peter Wimsey novel, the death of Agatha Dawson leads Lord Peter Wimsey and his confidant Detective-Inspector Charles Parker on a labyrinthine quest to find the truth behind a tangled web of murky clues.

In "The Cases of Lord Peter Wimsey - Complete Series," Dorothy L. Sayers presents an intricate tapestry of mystery, intellect, and social commentary through the adventures of her aristocratic detective, Lord Peter Wimsey. Blending sharp wit with a rigorous narrative style, Sayers skillfully navigates the complexities of early 20th-century England, shedding light on class distinctions, gender dynamics, and the moral ambiguities of her time. Each case intricately weaves the puzzle of crime with the rich fabric of human experience, showcasing Sayers'' ability to elevate the detective genre through literary finesse and philosophical depth. Dorothy L. Sayers, a distinguished figure in the literary world, holds the unique distinction of being one of the first women to gain recognition in the male-dominated genre of detective fiction. Her education at Oxford and her exposure to diverse intellectual circles undoubtedly shaped her writing. Sayers was also an advocate for women''s rights and a passionate believer in the importance of intellectual pursuits, themes that reverberate throughout Wimsey''s investigations and reflections. For readers of mystery and fans of character-driven storytelling alike, "The Cases of Lord Peter Wimsey - Complete Series" is a must-read that promises not only to entertain but also to provoke thoughtful consideration of societal norms. Sayers'' timeless narratives invite readers to delve into the mind of a detective who is as deeply human as he is keenly observant.

In Dorothy L. Sayers'' novel ''Clouds of Witness,'' readers are immersed in a thrilling mystery set in the social context of 1920s England. The book combines elements of classic detective fiction with a deep exploration of honor, family loyalty, and the consequences of one''s actions. Sayers'' eloquent prose and attention to detail create a vivid portrayal of the aristocratic lifestyle, while the intricate plot keeps readers engaged until the very end. The novel is a blend of psychological insight, social commentary, and suspenseful storytelling, making it a compelling read for fans of both mystery and literature. Dorothy L. Sayers'' expertly weaves together intricate plot twists and character development to create a gripping narrative that stands the test of time. ''Clouds of Witness'' showcases Sayers'' masterful storytelling ability and solidifies her place as one of the great British mystery writers of the 20th century. Readers who enjoy a thought-provoking mystery with a touch of literary sophistication will find ''Clouds of Witness'' to be a rewarding and captivating read.

In "Murder Must Advertise," Dorothy L. Sayers intricately weaves a tale that explores the intersection of crime and the marketing industry in 1930s London. With a sharp literary style characterized by witty dialogue and keen social observation, Sayers uses her principal investigator, Lord Peter Wimsey, to delve into the darker undercurrents of the seemingly glamorous advertising world. The narrative not only serves as a compelling murder mystery but also critiques contemporary advertising practices and societal mores, revealing how commodification can obscure morality. Dorothy L. Sayers, a pioneer in the crime fiction genre and a member of the Detection Club, was not only a novelist but also a linguist and an advertising copywriter herself. Her background in the advertising industry profoundly informed the plot and character development in "Murder Must Advertise," revealing her insights into both the human condition and the intricacies of marketing. Sayers''s deep understanding of professional and domestic spheres enriches the context of her narrative, adding layers of complexity to her characters and their motives. This novel is a must-read for fans of classic detective fiction and those intrigued by the complexities of human motivation in the face of societal expectations. Sayers''s sharp intellect and narrative prowess will captivate readers, making them ponder the ethical implications of their own consumer behaviors while eagerly following Wimsey''s investigative journey.

In "The Five Red Herrings," Dorothy L. Sayers presents an intricate exploration of the art of detection, set against the picturesque backdrop of rural Scotland. The narrative follows amateur sleuth Lord Peter Wimsey as he delves into the murder of a local artist, unearthing a labyrinth of lies and alibis. Sayers'' literary style is marked by its sharp wit and keen psychological insight, employing red herrings that challenge the reader''s perception of truth until the very last pages. The novel reflects the Golden Age of Detective Fiction, characterized by its emphasis on logical reasoning and the human psyche''s complexities, illustrating Sayers'' mastery within the genre. Sayers, an academic and scholar in medieval literature, frequently imbued her detective stories with rich historical detail and philosophical reflections. Her educational background and her mastery of language enabled her to create a narrative where not only the mystery unfolds but also critiques societal norms and the role of women, drawing parallels to her own life experiences as a pioneering female author in a male-dominated field. Readers seeking a compelling and intellectually stimulating mystery will find "The Five Red Herrings" a satisfying journey. Sayers captivates with her unique blend of humor, intricacy, and social commentary, making this novel a must-read for both mystery enthusiasts and those interested in the complexities of human nature.

In "Busman''s Honeymoon," Dorothy L. Sayers masterfully intertwines mystery and romance, presenting a compelling narrative that unfolds within a picturesque English country estate. This novel, the final installment in her acclaimed Lord Peter Wimsey series, showcases Sayers''s signature wit and keen psychological insights, illuminating the complexities of love and partnership. Set against the backdrop of post-World War I England, the story reflects the era''s socio-cultural shifts, employing an engaging, dialogue-rich style that captures the nuances of class and intellect, thus positioning it firmly within the British detective fiction canon. Dorothy L. Sayers, a contemporaneous figure in the Golden Age of Detective Fiction, was not only a novelist but also a renowned playwright and essayist. Her background in medieval studies and her experiences in the workforce deeply influenced her writing, particularly in constructing strong, layered characters and intricate plots. Sayers''s own unconventional approach to relationships and marriage resonates through the book, serving to critique societal norms while exploring the depths of human connection. "Busman''s Honeymoon" is an exquisite read for enthusiasts of classic detective fiction and romance alike, seamlessly blending intriguing mystery with profound explorations of human emotion. Sayers''s adept storytelling will resonate with modern readers, inviting them to reflect on the enduring questions of love, duty, and morality. This novel not only completes the whimsical adventures of Lord Peter Wimsey and Harriet Vane but also stands as a testament to Sayers''s literary brilliance.

In "Hangman''s Holiday," Dorothy L. Sayers presents a captivating collection of short stories that feature her renowned detective, Lord Peter Wimsey. Set against the backdrop of post-World War I England, the tales weave together elements of mystery, wit, and social commentary, showcasing Sayers'' signature mix of clever plotting and sharp dialogue. The literary style exemplifies the Golden Age of detective fiction, balanced between intellectual rigor and engaging narratives that invite readers to solve the puzzles alongside the characters. The stories intrigue with their exploration of justice, morality, and the human condition, often revealing the complexities of crime and the psychological motivations behind them. Dorothy L. Sayers was not only a prolific writer but also a scholar, translator, and playwright. Her academic background in modern languages and her passion for the intricacies of the human psyche deeply influenced her work. Sayers'' experience in the workforce and her keen observations of society''s nuances are evident throughout "Hangman''s Holiday," allowing her to elevate the genre beyond mere entertainment and into the realm of profound literary exploration. Recommended for both fans of classic mystery and newcomers to Sayers'' oeuvre, "Hangman''s Holiday" serves as a testament to her remarkable ability to blend captivating storytelling with intellectual depth. This collection is sure to enthrall readers with its intricate plots and richly drawn characters, making it a compelling addition to any literary library.

A nobleman with a penchant for solving mysteries works to uncover the truth about a dead body found in the bathtub of an architect’s home. This is a peculiar case that requires the unique skills and perspective of Lord Peter Wimsey. Lord Peter Wimsey is a war veteran forever changed by his time in the field. Despite his personal trauma, he spends his free time studying criminals and dissecting cases. When a dead body appears after a financier vanishes, many suspect an immediate connection. Yet, Lord Wimsey believes there is more to the story. Upon further investigation he discovers an insidious murder plot that includes notable figures in the community. Alongside Inspector Charles Parker, Lord Wimsey attempts to expose the truth. Whose Body? is a thrilling introduction to the world Lord Peter Wimsey. It is a multilayered mystery filled with humor and intrigue. Author Dorothy L. Sayers’ compelling prose delivers unforgettable characters and a classic detective plot. With an eye-catching new cover, and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of Whose Body? is both modern and readable.

Whose Body? is a 1923 mystery novel by Dorothy L. Sayers, in which she introduced the character of Lord Peter Wimsey.

Whose Body? is a 1923 mystery novel by Dorothy L. Sayers, in which she introduced the character of Lord Peter Wimsey.

Whose Body? is a 1923 mystery novel by Dorothy L. Sayers, in which she introduced the character of Lord Peter Wimsey.

With “a touch of genius,” this round-robin mystery follow-up to The Floating Admiral features famous detectives including Lord Peter Wimsey (The Times Literary Supplement). Following the success of The Floating Admiral, in which certain members of the Detection Club—including Agatha Christie, Dorothy L. Sayers, and G. K. Chesterton—collaborated on a whodunit, six writers pooled their talents to create another coauthored mystery. This time the premise had an added twist: authors would swap their detective characters, allowing for some extremely entertaining parodies of one another’s sleuths. When a ruthless British newspaper tycoon is shot dead in his home, the high-level suspects include the assistant commissioner of Scotland Yard, casting doubt on the impartiality of a formal police investigation. As a solution, the home secretary brings in four brilliant detectives to solve the murder: Mrs. Bradley, Sir John Saumarez, Lord Peter Wimsey, and Roger Sheringham. Featuring a preface by inaugural Detection Club member Agatha Christie, this playful tour de force gathers together half a dozen Golden Age Mystery masters: John Rhode, Helen Simpson, Gladys Mitchell, Anthony Berkeley, Dorothy L. Sayers, and Milward Kennedy.

Dorothy Leigh Sayers 13 June 1893 - 17 December 1957 was a renowned English crime writer, poet, playwright, essayist, translator, and Christian humanist. She was also a student of classical and modern languages.She is best known for her mysteries, a series of novels and short stories set between the First and Second World Wars that feature English aristocrat and amateur sleuth Lord Peter Wimsey, which remain popular to this day. However, Sayers herself considered her translation of Dante''s Divine Comedy to be her best work. She is also known for her plays, literary criticism, and essays.Sayers began working out the plot of her first novel some time in 1920-21. The seeds of the plot for Whose Body? can be seen in a letter that Sayers wrote on 22 January 1921:My detective story begins brightly, with a fat lady found dead in her bath with nothing on but her pince-nez. Now why did she wear pince-nez in her bath? If you can guess, you will be in a position to lay hands upon the murderer, but he''s a very cool and cunning fellow ... (p. 101, Reynolds)Lord Peter Wimsey burst upon the world of detective fiction with an explosive "Oh, damn!" and continued to engage readers in eleven novels and two sets of short stories, the final novel ending with a very different "Oh, damn!". Sayers once commented that Lord Peter was a mixture of Fred Astaire and Bertie Wooster, which is most evident in the first five novels. However, it is evident through Lord Peter''s development as a rounded character that he existed in Sayers''s mind as a living, breathing, fully human being.Sayers introduced the character of detective novelist Harriet Vane in Strong Poison. She remarked more than once that she had developed the "husky voiced, dark-eyed" Harriet to put an end to Lord Peter via matrimony. But in the course of writing Gaudy Night, Sayers imbued Lord Peter and Harriet with so much life that she was never able, as she put it, to "see Lord Peter exit the stage".Sayers did not content herself with writing pure detective stories; she explored the difficulties of First World War veterans in The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club, discussed the ethics of advertising in Murder Must Advertise, and advocated women''s education (then a controversial subject) and role in society in Gaudy Night. In Gaudy Night, Miss Barton writes a book attacking the Nazi doctrine of Kinder, Kirche, Küche, which restricted women''s roles to family activities, and in many ways the whole of Gaudy Night can be read as an attack on Nazi social doctrine. The book has been described as "the first feminist mystery novel."Sayers''s Christian and academic interests are also apparent in her detective series. In The Nine Tailors, one of her most well-known detective novels, the plot unfolds largely in and around an old church dating back to the Middle Ages. Change ringing of bells also forms an important part of the novel. In Have His Carcase, the Playfair cipher and the principles of cryptanalysis are explained. Her short story Absolutely Elsewhere refers to the fact that (in the language of modern physics) the only perfect alibi for a crime is to be outside its light cone, while The Fascinating Problem of Uncle Meleager''s Will contains a literary crossword puzzle.Sayers also wrote a number of short stories about Montague Egg, a wine salesman who solves mysteries.

Dorothy Leigh Sayers (/ˈsɛərz/ sairz[1] (13 June 1893 - 17 December 1957) was a renowned English crime writer, poet, playwright, essayist, translator, and Christian humanist. She was also a student of classical and modern languages.She is best known for her mysteries, a series of novels and short stories set between the First and Second World Wars that feature English aristocrat and amateur sleuth Lord Peter Wimsey, which remain popular to this day. However, Sayers herself considered her translation of Dante''s Divine Comedy to be her best work. She is also known for her plays, literary criticism, and essays.Gaudy Night, by Dorothy L. Sayers, is an interesting mystery novel that begins when Harriet Vane decides to attend a reunion, known as a Gaudy, at Shrewsbury College, a fictitious woman''s college at Oxford University. Harriet has not returned to Shrewsbury since graduating. She becomes a famous mystery writer after being acquitted for a murder she did not commit. The man who saves her is Lord Peter Wimsey, who has been trying to get her to marry him for the past five years.Harriet is nervous about her return to Shrewsbury, wondering how she will be received by the faculty, students and staff. She is only attending because a classmate of hers is very ill and is attending the Gaudy before going overseas for surgery. In spite of her fears and nervousness, the reunion goes well. The only thing that mars the experience is the receipt of a prank letter that she finds just as she is leaving. She promises to attend future events at the school.The Gaudy begins a series of prank poison pen letters written with letters cut out from newspapers, burnings in effigy and obscenities scrawled on walls. When the New Library is to be opened, Harriet receives an invitation and the school asks her to help them with the problem. Harriet goes to the New Library opening and takes up residence in the Guest Room where she stays for the remainder of the term. The College officials want the matter handled discretely without publicity or the authorities.Harriet agrees to conduct the investigation for them. All evidence from any incident is directed to her and she documents the incidents as they occur, compiling a lengthy dossier.One term runs into another term as the incidents continue, becoming more serious as one student is driven to try suicide. At this point, Harriet tells the school officials that they need to bring in experts. She eventually brings in her friend, Lord Peter Wimsey who is also an Oxford alum.The attacks continue, becoming more serious as Harriet and the others try to trap the attacker. Peter does some research that takes him to York checking out clues. When he returns, after an attempt on Harriet''s life, he reveals his suspicions and how he arrived at them at a meeting. The culprit confesses, thus bringing an end to the poison pen letters and violence.Throughout the book, Peter keeps asking Harriet to marry him and she keeps saying no. She becomes more involved with his family and their problems when she meets his nephew, Viscount Gerald Saint-George who attends one of the Oxford colleges. The time spent working on the case has them all re-evaluating their feelings.Plot SummaryCharactersObjects/PlacesThemesStyle

An investigation into the nature of God and creativity from the author of the Lord Peter Wimsey Mysteries, with an introduction by Madeleine L’Engle. From the first pages of Genesis, it is clear that God and man share one vital trait: the ability to create great works out of nothing. More than any other group, artists feel impelled to create, and this urge brings them closer to God. By contemplating the creative drive of humanity, we can better understand the works of God, and by reading deeply into the tenets of Christianity, we can better understand the creative spirit of man. Dorothy L. Sayers explores the concept of the Holy Trinity within the context of invention: the creative idea, the creative energy, and the creative power. In this searching, wide-ranging treatise, one of the greatest minds of the twentieth century shows us what it means to be an artist—and what it takes to make humankind.

Lord Peter Wimsey and Harriet Vane investigate a dead body on the beach in this “nearly perfect detective story” by the author of Busman’s Honeymoon (Saturday Review). Harriet Vane has gone on vacation to forget her recent murder trial and, more importantly, to forget the man who cleared her name—the dapper, handsome, and maddening Lord Peter Wimsey. She is alone on a beach when she spies a man lying on a rock, surf lapping at his ankles. She tries to wake him, but he doesn’t budge. His throat has been cut, and his blood has drained out onto the sand. As the tide inches forward, Harriet makes what observations she can and photographs the scene. Finally, she goes for the police, but by the time they return the body has gone. Only one person can help her discover how the poor man died at the beach: Lord Peter, the amateur sleuth who won her freedom and her heart in one fell swoop. Have His Carcase is the 8th book in the Lord Peter Wimsey Mysteries, but you may enjoy the series by reading the books in any order. This ebook features an illustrated biography of Dorothy L. Sayers including rare images from the Marion E. Wade Center at Wheaton College.

Harriet Vane may face the hangman for the murder of her fiancé—and only Lord Peter Wimsey can save her—in this “model detective story” (The New York Times). Lord Peter Wimsey comes to the trial of Harriet Vane for a glimpse at one of the most engaging murder cases London has seen in years. Unfortunately for the detective, the crime’s details are distractingly salacious, and there is little doubt that the woman will be found guilty. A slightly popular mystery novelist, she stands accused of poisoning her fiancé, a literary author and well-known advocate of free love. Over the course of a few weeks, she bought strychnine, prussic acid, and arsenic, and when her lover died the police found enough poison in his veins to kill a horse. But as Lord Peter watches Harriet in the dock, he begins to doubt her guilt—and to fall in love. As Harriet awaits the hangman, Lord Peter races to prove her innocence, hoping that for the first time in his life, love will triumph over death. Strong Poison is the sixth book in the Lord Peter Wimsey Mysteries, but you may enjoy the series by reading the books in any order. This ebook features an illustrated biography of Dorothy L. Sayers including rare images from the Marion E. Wade Center at Wheaton College.

In three stories, Lord Peter Wimsey confronts land barons, killers—and fatherhood: “One of the most skillful of mystery writers” (The New York Times). For decades, Lord Peter Wimsey has made life tough for England’s criminal class. In town and country he solved some of the most baffling mysteries of the Jazz Age, facing down killers armed only with wit, charm, and a keen nose for deception. His work brought him 1 great reward: the love of beautiful mystery novelist Harriet Vane. After years of pleading, he has finally convinced her to marry him. Now the real adventure begins. In the final 3 Wimsey stories, Lord Peter confronts land barons, killers, and the terror that comes from raising 3 young sons. Through it all, his clear thinking never fails him, and he solves these last puzzles as successfully as he did his 1st. He may be a family man now, but like good wine, a great detective only gets better with age. Striding Folly is the 15th book in the Lord Peter Wimsey Mysteries, but you may enjoy the series by reading the books in any order. This ebook features an illustrated biography of Dorothy L. Sayers including rare images from the Marion E. Wade Center at Wheaton College.

An irresistible collection of “truly remarkable” stories from the master of classic mysteries, featuring Lord Peter Wimsey and Montague Egg (The New York Times). Most noblemen would prefer to avoid a charred corpse in a garage. But Lord Peter Wimsey has never seen such a body, and cannot resist the opportunity when it comes along. The corpse is burned beyond recognition, but the watch it wears remains pristine—stopped precisely at seven minutes past nine. These are the sorts of clues that great murder cases are built around, and few detectives are more adept at finding them than Wimsey, the famous creation of Dorothy L. Sayers. In this volume, two classic Wimsey stories appear alongside five starring Montague Egg, an eccentric wine salesman whose powers of deduction could give His Lordship a run for his money. A handful of other glittering puzzles round out the volume, serving as testament to Sayers’s enduring status as a star of crime fiction. In the Teeth of the Evidence is the 14th book in the Lord Peter Wimsey Mysteries, but you may enjoy the series by reading the books in any order. This ebook features an illustrated biography of Dorothy L. Sayers including rare images from the Marion E. Wade Center at Wheaton College.

A dozen whodunits to challenge the ingenious British aristocrat and sleuth—from “one of the greatest mystery story writers” (Los Angeles Times). Some aristocrats spend their lives shooting, but Lord Peter Wimsey is a hunter of a different kind: a bloodhound with a nose for murder. Before he became Britain’s most famous detective, Lord Peter contented himself with solving the crimes he came across by chance. In this volume of short stories, he confronts a stolen stomach, a man with copper fingers, and a deadly adventure at Ali Baba’s cave, among other conundrums. These mysteries tax not just his intellect, but his humor, knowledge of metallurgy, and taste for fine wines. It’s not easy being a gentleman sleuth, but Lord Peter is the man for the job. Lord Peter Views the Body is the 4th book in the Lord Peter Wimsey Mysteries, but you may enjoy the series by reading the books in any order. This ebook features an illustrated biography of Dorothy L. Sayers including rare images from the Marion E. Wade Center at Wheaton College.

In this play, Dorothy L. Sayers reworked the legend of Faustus as a serious ''comedy, '' presenting Faustus as one who chooses wicked means as an end to an admirable goal: the relief of suffering (while becoming entirely focused on his own supposed satisfactions). In the last scene, in the Court of Heaven, Azrael, angel of the souls of the dead, claims Faustus'' soul, opposing Mephistopheles'' claim. With the knowledge of good and evil returned to him, Faustus finally accepts that his evil must be cleansed, with Mephistopheles serving as the agent of that purgation. Faustus accepts his need for cleansing, trusting that the divine Judge/Court President, will indeed in mercy meet him at the very gates of hell, finally redeemed.

The third book in Dorothy L Sayers'' classic Lord Peter Wimsey series, introduced by crime writer Minette Walters - a must-read for fans of Agatha Christie''s Poirot and Margery Allingham''s Campion Mysteries. ''D. L. Sayers is one of the best detective story writers'' Daily Telegraph ''No sign of foul play,'' says Dr Carr after the post-mortem on Agatha Dawson. The case is closed. But Lord Peter Wimsey is not satisfied . . . With no clues to work on, he begins his own investigation. No clues, that is, until the sudden, senseless murder of Agatha''s maid. What is going on in the mysterious Mrs Forrest''s Mayfair flat? And can Wimsey catch a desperate murderer before he himself becomes one of the victims? ''She brought to the detective novel originality, intelligence, energy and wit.'' P. D. James

Gentleman sleuth Lord Peter Wimsey and his bride Harriet Vane have settled into thier life together in 1930s London when an extra complication arises suddenly.