We are long-time fans in this house of John Mortimer and his Horace Rumpole mysteries. We loved the books and loved watching the British television series starring Leo McKern. So we were saddened last month to hear that John Mortimer had died.
A few weeks ago, I read a wonderful post by Sam Sattler (Book Chase) about a newer Rumpole novel that I hadn’t heard about. It was published by Mortimer in 2004 as a prequel for the series, and was one of the last three books he wrote. After reading Sam’s review, I decided that was definitely one for my TBR list! Then, the other day I stopped by the library as I was preparing for my week in Portland helping to take care of my two-year old Grandboy, and I found the audiobook of The Penge Bungalow Mystery sitting on the shelf. I snatched it up and took it with me on the trip, and it made the drive there and back again very enjoyable.
For an excellent review of the book, I encourage you to read Sam’s post. But I’ll just say that I was delighted that the story explained all about Rumpole’s courtship with Hilda Wystan (She Who Must Be Obeyed), and how he ended up marrying her. Listening to the wonderful narration by Bill Wallis, I grinned and chuckled all the way to Portland. Highly recommended!
A Fondness For Reading 
I love the name, Horace Rumpole. It sounds familiar but I’ve never heard of these books. Now they are calling my name.
LikeLike
Oh Framed! You are in for a lot of fun! And if you haven’t seen the old BBC series, you can get them on DVD, and they are such a lot of fun. You’ll get hooked, for sure.
LikeLike
This is the only Rumpole book I haven’t read and I’ve left in in my TBR pile as once I read it, there won’t be any more! I’m a big fan and was saddened to see the news of Mortimer’s death.
LikeLike
Sarah, I don’t blame you for postponing reading it. I hate it when I come to the end of a much-loved series. I am still grieving the fact that there won’t be any more Tony Hillerman novels.
LikeLike