Calamity in Kent by John Rowland

Calamity in Kent by John Rowland ISBN-13: 9781464205774 Paperback: 276 pages Publisher: Poisoned Pen Press Released: 1950; April 5, 2016

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from NetGalley:
In the peaceful seaside town of Broadgate, a sensational murder occurs. The operator of the cliff lift locks the empty carriage one evening; when he returns to work next morning, a dead body is locked inside – a man who has been stabbed in the back.

Jimmy London, a newspaper reporter, is first on the scene. He is quick on the trail for clues – and agrees to pool his knowledge with Inspector Shelley of Scotland Yard. This case could reignite Jimmy’s newspaper career, but it also exposes him to great danger.


My Review:
Calamity in Kent is a mystery novel that was originally published in 1950. Jimmy, the viewpoint character, is a newspaper reporter who is investigating the crime so he can write headline stories about it. He promises to share what he finds with Inspector Shelley and he keeps his word, but he didn't hesitant to push the limits of the law in pursuit of his story.

Much of the investigation was into the victim's illegal activities rather than solving whodunit and how. There were few viable suspects. Whodunit did seem highly likely to me, but the story could have easily gone in a completely different direction. There's a bit of suspense at the end. While Jimmy played a vital role, Inspector Shelley was the one to solve the crime and explain it to Jimmy (and the reader).

There was no sex or bad language (though there is one word that Americans use in a vulgar way but it wasn't meant that way). Overall, I'd recommend this book to those who enjoy "just along for the ride" mysteries.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.