I have been loving British Libraries series of books for a few years now, most are wonderful examples of Golden Era detective fiction rediscovered. A couple probably should have been left where they were. Smallbone Deceased is, though, my absolute favourite so far. This is perhaps not such a surprise, Gilbert is not quite the lost artist most of his BLCC peers have been, as he was writing and being published successfully until 2011. Even so, his characters, and the fluidity of his writing; the humour and deceptive light-heartedness of his style make for one of the most enjoyable books I have read this year. More from Mr.Gilbert, please

Described as a masterpiece in older reviews, there is no doubt that this novel scores on so many points; a fascinating plot containing enough red herrings for any reader, a thoroughly established setting with its routines and quirks, and an extremely satisfying cast of characters, all well drawn and distinctly individual. A book which reveals the writer’s own knowledge of working in legal offices; an amateur detective with an unusual trait that makes him a fantastic sleuth and operative, and the discovery of a body which almost defies belief in its audacity. This is a beautifully worked out book written with an understated and elegant style. I was very impressed and grateful to receive a copy of this book from the British Library Crime Classics series, as it is indeed an excellent read dating from 1950, and beautifully republished. The opening section of the book serves as a clever introduction to a group of solicitors’ firms “the Gordon Selfridge of solicitors, different departments to suit all tastes and purses”. The newest entrant to this firm, Henry Bohun, is a much qualified individual who seems to have finally settled on a career in the law, together with his nocturnal activities that he pursues with a laudable dedication and intelligent bravery. As he observes the individuals around him, he realises that there are some very varied and interesting characters assembled, who will provide many avenues of investigation in due course. Not that this book is told exclusively from his point of view; indeed the interchangeability of his names (Henry or Bohun) can be a little confusing. When the body of a sort of client is discovered in a special deed box, sealed and only slightly decomposed, many questions emerge. Why is he in a box only accessible to a now deceased senior partner? Is the significance of that particular box vitally important? Why should anyone trouble to kill a man of limited means and influence? When could such a crime and concealment be effected? When another killing occurs, who has an alibi when the London Transport system has been affected by a general power cut? With so many clues, motives, accountancy queries and general observations on the minutely organised offices of Horniman, Birley and Craine, it is a fortunate thing that the investigation is in the capable and thoughtful hands of Chief Inspector Hazelerigg, who at once sees the whole picture, while suffering some doubts. With the painstaking efforts of Sergeant Plumptree who combines careful determination with the unthreatening appearance of someone who invites information, this is a delightfully complex but perfectly understandable novel. This book shows all the best strands of a late Golden Age classic, and Gilbert’s thoughtful, often amusing and always entertaining novel is a truly wonderful read. As always, Martin Edwards introduction sets up the book well while giving a valuable context to this particular novel within Gilbert’s considerable output and the current developments in crime writing. This is a book for anyone interested in the inventive crime writing of the twentieth century, the legal establishment and a well - constructed, convincing exploration of motives and activities of those whose business is the law, but who are also essentially human.

Very enjoyable crime novel written well with good characters. I discovered this author through the British library crime short story collection. The story is fast paced and amusing with a good detective and a good amateur detective as well. Great fun.

I’ve read a lot of the British Library Crime Classics, most of them in fact, and Smallbone Deceased is without a doubt, one of the stand outs in this series. This one is based at a well respected legal firm in London, whose reputation comes under question when a body is discovered locked in a deed box. Michael Gilbert worker as a partner in a London law firm and it’s clear to see he drew on a wealth of knowledge and experience for this novel. The first hand knowledge really brings this book into its own, Horniman, Birley and Craine is brought to life as are the colourful characters that work in its offices. We have all the classic story hooks in this book – an impossible crime, red herrings a-plenty, underhand dealings and of course, an amateur sleuth in the form of solicitor Henry Bohun. Although the difference with tale is that the police aren’t blundering fools which is usually the case in golden age crime. Inspector Hazelrigg has a sharp mind and keen eye, he sees the potential of Bohun’s knowledge and uses it to suss out the killer. Also a bonus point has to be given for the fantastic naming of one of the police sergeants – Sergeant Plumptree. Every time I read that it made me smile, what a joyous surname! This whodunnit is full of wit and panache. It’s a splendid puzzle and there are some truly superb descriptions, there are two other Michael Gilbert novels that the British Library has re-issued and I cannot wait to get to them.

I haven’t delved particularly deep into the world of crime fiction, but ‘Smallbone Deceased’ was definitely the place to start. Part of the aesthetically captivating BL Crime Classics collection, this novel has planted within me a desire to discover the other gems compiled within the series. ‘Smallbone Deceased’ follows rookie solicitor Henry Bohun as he starts his career at the prestigious Horniman, Birley and Craine law firm in bustling central London. When the body of Mr. Smallbone is discovered in a deed box, Bohun is thrust into the midst of a complex murder. The sharp-minded inspector Hazelrigg is assigned to the case, and with an office full of suspects, the inspector and Bohun must employ their joint intellects to unravel the mystery. Besides the twisting plot, what really drives ‘Smallbone Deceased’ are the characters. Each provide individual personalities, the nuances of which provide the root of much of the plentiful humour throughout the novel. Additionally, Michael Gilbert’s personal experiences and substantial knowledge of law allows him to create a vivid setting into which readers can find themselves overwhelmed by the shelves of paperwork which fill the offices of Horniman, Birley and Craine. If you’re searching for a good crime novel, look no further than ‘Smallbone Deceased’. Free from copious violence and the like which dominate modern crime and thrillers, this is a classic you’ll no doubt devour in a short period.