Anton Palook is shot on stage while dancing the role of Petrushka in the ballet of the same name. Inspector Quill is assigned to investigate the murder.

Not as funny as I remember from reading it as a teenager but still very enjoyable. ( )

Began an unofficial collaboration in the late twenties when they became Low's famous dog 'Mussolini' on the Evening Standard Home Page. ( )

"Overcome by sudden affection due to not having to meet for the next six months, the authors dedicate this book to each other." With a dedication like that, I knew I was in for a treat. The narration is wonderfully dry-witted and sharp, and the characters delightfully absurd. When a member of a ballet troupe is killed while performing the role of Petrushka in the ballet of the same name, Inspector Quill investigates and finds himself up against some very eccentric characters. The mystery itself is almost incidental; the real fun is following along with Stroganoff and Arenskaya and all the rest as they confound and help the authorities in equal measure.

Given that Caryl Brahms was a ballet critic for the Evening Standard, the ballet scenes are particularly well presented and may make you want to seek out a performance of Petrushka for yourself. I thoroughly enjoyed this very quick, light read and would read more by these authors if I came across any. ( )