If you are ever tempted by a book which describes itself as 'domestic noir', put it back on the shelf and read this instead.

Published in 1946, this is the chilling story of a master manipulator. I concede that it is not a perfect book. There is one plot device which you couldn't get away with now (although I think that Armstrong knows she's pushing the reader and tries as hard as possible to justify it), and probably all the twists and turns become a little unrealistic in the end. But I was reading it too fast to care. It was so gripping that I even tried to read it while I was doing the washing-up! (it was an ebook so not as mad as trying to read a paperback at the sink, but still...) ( )

[The Unsuspected] by Charlotte Armstrong
4★'s

From the Book:

Why did Rosaleen Wright hang herself in a soundproof room? She left an unsigned note, peppered with stiff religious references and no trace of her trademark vitality or wit. The police believe it was suicide, but Rosaleen’s best friend, Jane, is suspicious. To prove Rosaleen was murdered, she takes a job with the man who killed her. Luther Grandison, Rosaleen’s boss, is a New York theatrical impresario with a lethal charm. To the world at large, he’s powerful and charismatic, but Rosaleen’s letters to Jane described a greedy man who stole from his adopted daughter when his bank account ran low. Jane thinks Grandison killed her to protect his secret, but to prove it she will have to face down one of the finest murderers Broadway has ever seen.

My Thoughts:

Although the plot seems a bit improbable, you are so involved with the story that you don't really think about it. The main character, Grandy, is one of the most unique creations that I have encountered in some time.... and the bewildered heroine was quite...bewildered...but appealing also. Overall, it was a delightfully enjoyable work of fictional intrigue. Just suspend your disbelief and go along for the ride. You will be amazed how much you'll enjoy it. ( )

One of my all time favorite books and comfort reads. I was almost scared to read it again, afraid it would've hold up to my memory, but it does. Wonderful characters, intriguing plot. ( )