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Start giftingRumpole for the Defense
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Learn moreWhether he's quoting Wordsworth or having words with a particularly obtuse judge, Horace Rumpole always knows what he's doing––even if no one else does. In this delightful collection of stories, Rumpole straightens everyone out in the shocking case of a "bent copper," gallantly teaches a professor of moral philosophy about blackmail, consults with the dear departed when a will is contested, traces the path of true love when a doctor is accused of murder, and (in the name of duty, of course) drinks to excess with a teetotaling member of the prosecution. There is even a rare moment or two when Rumpole finds himself appreciative of "She Who Must Be Obeyed" (Mrs. Rumpole), when she inadvertently provides some essential clues that clinch his cases.
Stories in this collection include "Rumpole for the Defence," "Rumpole and the Gentle Art of Blackmail," "Rumpole and the Dear Departed," "Rumpole and the Rotten Apple," "Rumpole and the Expert Witness," "Rumpole and the Spirit of Christmas," and "Rumpole and the Boat People."
John Mortimer (1923–2009) was a playwright, novelist, and barrister. He wrote many radio, film, and television scripts, including the British television series Rumpole of the Bailey, and won the British Academy Writer of the Year Award in 1979. He retired from the bar in 1984 and was knighted in 1998.
Frederick Davidson (1932–2005), also known as David Case, was one of the most prolific readers in the audiobook industry, recording more than eight hundred audiobooks in his lifetime, including over two hundred for Blackstone Audio. Born in London, he trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and performed for many years in radio plays for the British Broadcasting Company before coming to America in 1976. He received AudioFile’s Golden Voice Award and numerous Earphones Awards and was nominated for a Grammy for his readings.
Reviews
“Any mystery-lover looking for an engaging audiobook will enjoy this collection of short stories about Horace Rumpole and the Old Bailey. These stories are well-written, interesting and clever. The wide variety of characters are—well, characters—and each is given life and entirely appropriate voice by Frederick Davidson. His various British accents are convincing. Perhaps more difficult, his portrayal of both men’s and women’s voices is right on target so that ‘She-Who-Must-Be-Obeyed’ sounds as believable as Rumpole himself. Pacing and sound quality are good. This is an excellent production, sure to be savored by listeners and good enough to listen to again.”
“Rumpole is one of the immortals of mystery fiction.”
“Mortimer has created one of the legendary fictional detectives…a barrister [who’s] as much a detective as Sherlock Holmes or Hercule Poirot.”
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