Dead of Jericho

Colin Dexter's “The Dead of Jericho” is the fifth installment in the Inspector Morse series, offering readers another glimpse into the world of the curmudgeonly Oxford detective. While the book has its merits, it falls short of being truly exceptional.

The story begins with Morse attending a party where he meets the attractive Anne Scott. Months later, Anne is found dead in her home in Jericho, a suburb of Oxford. Morse, despite not being assigned to the case, can't resist involving himself in the investigation. This premise sets up an intriguing mystery that should keep readers engaged.

Dexter's writing style is, as always, erudite and filled with literary allusions that will please those who enjoy a more intellectual approach to crime fiction. His depiction of Oxford and its environs is vivid and atmospheric, providing a rich backdrop for the unfolding drama.

However, the pacing of the novel can be frustratingly slow at times. Dexter tends to meander, taking detours into Morse's personal life and thoughts that, while character-building, often distract from the central mystery. Some readers may find these diversions enriching, while others might see them as unnecessary padding.

The mystery itself is complex, perhaps overly so. While this complexity might appeal to puzzle enthusiasts, it can also make the plot feel convoluted and hard to follow at times. The resolution, when it comes, feels somewhat anticlimactic given the build-up.

Morse himself remains an interesting character, with his crossword puzzles, love of Wagner, and penchant for real ale. His relationship with the long-suffering Sergeant Lewis continues to be a highlight, providing moments of levity and contrast. However, Morse's attitudes towards women, while perhaps reflective of the time the book was written, may strike modern readers as outdated and occasionally off-putting.

In conclusion, “The Dead of Jericho” is a solid entry in the Morse series, but not a standout. It will likely satisfy fans of Dexter's work and those who enjoy traditional British detective fiction. However, newcomers to the series might be better served starting with earlier, more tightly plotted installments. The book's strengths lie in its sense of place and character development, but these are somewhat undermined by pacing issues and an overly complicated plot.

For Morse aficionados, it's worth a read, but casual mystery fans might find it a bit of a slog. Hence, a middle-of-the-road three stars seems appropriate for this competent but not exceptional detective novel.