Murder in Dublin (Blind Detective)
You might wonder how someone who is visually impaired could be instrumental in bringing together so many elements and clues to assist in solving the mysteries posed following murder most foul at Castleford Manor. Frederick Rowlands sustained his injuries in The Great War, but it is in 1939, with Europe on the brink of World War Two, that we find our amateur detective journeying from London to Dublin, at the request of his dearest friend Celia Swift. Rowlands blends seamlessly into the household, rapidly forging bonds with the key characters, while effortlessly supporting the lady of the house for whom he has harboured romantic feelings since their first encounter some time previously. Lord Castleford, Celia’s husband, has been the subject of death threats, but he is determined they are of no consequence. However, when his half-brother is murdered in one of his prized cars, he becomes the prime suspect. The local constabulary are sure that it is an open and shut case, so his lordship is incarcerated to await trial at Kilmainham Jail. Celia relies on Rowlands to use his amazing detective skills to bring justice for her beloved amidst a background involving some unsavoury terrorist IRA-supporting locals.
This is an engaging story and, though somewhat surprising at a time when disability was not universally accepted, our main character is well-liked and trusted by those around him. Koning has researched the era to capture the elements that were domestically and politically significant during this period of Irish history.
