New Releases by Dorothy L. Sayers

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.

Clouds of Witness by Dorothy L. Sayers is the second novel in the acclaimed Lord Peter Wimsey mystery series. Published in 1926, this novel follows the amateur detective Lord Peter Wimsey as he investigates a murder that has taken place at his family''s ancestral home. Set in the idyllic English countryside, this novel is a perfect blend of a classic whodunit mystery and a social commentary on the changing landscape of the British aristocracy. The story begins with Lord Peter''s brother, the Duke of Denver, being accused of murdering his sister''s fiancé, Captain Denis Cathcart. Despite the strong evidence against the Duke, Lord Peter is convinced of his brother''s innocence and is determined to clear his name. The investigation takes Lord Peter and his faithful manservant Bunter to the family''s estate, where they must navigate through a tangled web of family secrets, old grudges, and potential motives for the murder. One of the most striking aspects of Clouds of Witness is its vivid and richly detailed setting. Sayers expertly captures the beauty and tranquility of the English countryside, while also highlighting the stark contrast between the lavish lifestyle of the aristocracy and the struggles of the working class. Through her descriptions of the grand estate and its inhabitants, Sayers paints a picture of a society in transition, with the looming threat of the First World War and the changing values of the younger generation. The characters in this novel are also incredibly well-developed, each with their own distinct personalities and motivations. Lord Peter, with his sharp wit and deductive skills, is an endearing and charming protagonist, while his brother, the Duke, is portrayed as a troubled and emotionally distant character. The rest of the Wimsey family, as well as the various suspects and witnesses, are all well-crafted and add depth to the overall story. In addition to its well-crafted plot and characters, Clouds of Witness also delves into deeper themes such as loyalty, honor, and justice. As Lord Peter unravels the truth behind the murder, he is forced to confront his own beliefs and biases, and question the loyalty of those closest to him. Sayers also provides a scathing commentary on the shallow and superficial nature of the British aristocracy, and the ways in which their actions can have far-reaching consequences. Overall, Clouds of Witness is a masterfully written mystery novel that combines a gripping plot, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes. Sayers'' writing is sharp, witty, and engaging, making this novel a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone interested in exploring the intricacies of British society in the early 20th century. It is a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers with its intricate plot twists, compelling characters, and beautiful prose.

"Unnatural Death" by Dorothy L. Sayers is a detective novel that delves into the mysterious and sudden death of an elderly woman, which piques the interest of Lord Peter Wimsey, an amateur sleuth. The story begins with a conversation between Wimsey and his friend, Detective-Inspector Parker, who are dining in a Soho restaurant. They overhear a doctor recounting his professional downfall after questioning the unexpected death of a wealthy cancer patient. The doctor, who had been treating the old lady, was puzzled by her sudden demise, as she had shown signs of recovery. Despite conducting a post-mortem and an analysis, no cause of death was found, leading to rumors and the eventual ruin of his practice. Intrigued by the case, Wimsey decides to investigate further. He enlists the help of Miss Climpson, a resourceful and tactful woman, to search for the death certificate and gather information about the incident. The narrative unfolds as Wimsey and Parker explore various leads, considering the roles of the niece, the nurse, and the family lawyer in the old lady''s death. The niece''s insistence on her aunt''s deteriorating condition, the nurse''s involvement, and the lawyer''s mysterious visit all add layers of complexity to the case. Sayers crafts a tale that combines elements of mystery, social commentary, and character study. The novel explores themes of professional ethics, the propagation of rumors, and the challenges faced by those who question the status quo. As Wimsey delves deeper into the investigation, he must navigate a web of deceit and uncover the truth behind the unnatural death.

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 "Have His Carcase," Dorothy L. Sayers crafts a compelling detective novel that marries intricate plotting with a rich psychological exploration of its characters. Set against the backdrop of the picturesque Dorset coast, the narrative follows the celebrated amateur sleuth Lord Peter Wimsey as he investigates the mysterious death of a man discovered on a beach, with a missing corpse that complicates the case. Sayers employs a sophisticated literary style, interweaving sharp dialogue, vivid descriptions, and a keen understanding of human motivations, all while reflecting the cultural tensions and social mores of the 1930s England. This novel exemplifies the Golden Age of detective fiction, offering readers a blend of intellectual rigor and entertainment. Dorothy L. Sayers, a prominent figure in the literary world and a contemporary of Agatha Christie, was not only a writer but also a scholar, translator, and playwright. Her academic background in classical studies at Oxford University lent her works a breadth of knowledge and an appreciation for nuanced storytelling. Sayers'' personal experiences, including her explorations of faith and the psychology of human relationships, imbue her writing with depth and sophistication, particularly seen in her masterful creation of Lord Peter Wimsey. "Have His Carcase" is a must-read for fans of classic detective fiction and those who appreciate a narrative that delves into the complexities of human nature. Sayers'' ability to fuse whodunit elements with profound insights into morality and identity makes this book not only engaging but also intellectually stimulating. Readers will find themselves captivated by the labyrinthine plot and the enduring charm of its protagonist.

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.

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

Murder Must Advertise is a 1933 mystery novel by Dorothy L. Sayers, the eighth in her series featuring 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.

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

In the world of Lord Peter Wimsey, even bell-ringing isn’t free from murder. Chance car troubles leave Lord Peter stranded in the small town, and when he discovers that a theft of emeralds from a family twenty years earlier was never solved, his detective’s curiousity is piqued. But unsurprisingly, things turn out to be more complicated as Lord Peter could have suspected, as he begins to uncover a web of murder, conspiracy, and false identity. Penguin Random House Canada is proud to bring you classic works of literature in e-book form, with the highest quality production values. Find more today and rediscover books you never knew you loved.

Oxford is full of memories—and threats of murder—for Harriet Vane and Lord Peter Wimsey in this mystery that "stands out even among Miss Sayers''s novels" ( The Times Literary Supplement). Since she graduated from Oxford''s Shrewsbury College, Harriet Vane has found fame by writing novels about ingenious murders. She also won infamy when she was accused of committing a murder herself. It took a timely intervention from the debonair Lord Peter Wimsey to save her from the gallows, and since then she has devoted her spare time to resisting his attempts to marry her. Putting aside her lingering shame from the trial, Harriet returns to Oxford for her college reunion with her head held high—only to find that her life is in danger once again. The first poison-pen letter calls her a "dirty murderess," and those that follow are no kinder. As the threats become more frightening, she calls on Lord Peter for help. Among the dons of Oxford lurks a killer, but it will take more than a superior education to match Lord Peter and the daring Harriet. Gaudy Night is the 12th 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.

Gathered here for the first time in one volume are all the short stories by the legendary mystery writer Dorothy L. Sayers. In this beguiling collection, Sayers conveys in her incomparable way the gruesome, the grotesque, and the bewitching. Here is the inimitable aristocrat, Lord Peter Wimsey, one of fiction''s most popular detectives of all time, up to his usual exploits as he solves tantalizing puzzles, as only he can. And then there''s the clever working-class salesman-sleuth, Montague Egg, who uses his everyday smarts to solve the cases that baffle the professionals. A sumptuous feast of criminal doings and undoings, Dorothy L. Sayers: The Complete Stories is a mystery lover''s treasure trove of the amusing and appalling things that happen on the way to the gallows.

Deemed "one of the greatest mystery writers of this century" by the Los Angeles Times, Dorothy L. Sayers first captivated readers nearly seventy years ago with her beloved sleuths Lord Peter Wimsey and Harriet Vane in the novel Stong Poison. In Busmans''s Honeymoon, her last completed Wimsey/Vane novel, Lord Peter and Harriet culminated their partnership with marriage. Now Thrones, Dominations, Sayers'' uncompleted last novel, satisfies the vast readership hungry to know what happened after the honeymoon. Here award-winning author Jill Paton Walsh picks up where Sayers left off, bringing Wimsey and Vane brilliantly to life in Sayers'' unmistakable voice. Readers and reviewers are rejoicing at the return of this delightful sleuthing couple--as adept at solving a baffling murder mystery as they are a balancing the delicate demands of their loving union.