The writing style. Dorothy Sayers has a very intelligent and engaging writing style. In her novels like 'Strong Poison', she is able to convey complex ideas and emotions. Her courtroom scenes in this novel are written in a way that makes you feel like you are in the courtroom, experiencing the drama and tension. Her ability to build characters and plots through her writing is what can make a novel the best.
A great plot. For example, in 'Gaudy Night', the mystery plot that intertwines with the academic setting makes it stand out. It has enough twists and turns to keep you interested. Also, strong characters play a huge part. Lord Peter Wimsey is a very charming and intelligent detective, and his relationship with Harriet Vane adds an extra layer of interest to the story.
The atmosphere. In 'The Nine Tailors', the description of the English countryside and the bell - ringing traditions create a unique and immersive atmosphere. You can almost hear the bells ringing as you read. And the way Sayers weaves in the mystery within this setting is really masterful. It gives a sense of place and time that is both vivid and engaging.
For me, 'Strong Poison' stands out. The mystery is compelling and the writing is superb. Also, the character interactions are quite engaging.
In my opinion, 'Gaudy Night' is one of the best. It combines mystery with an exploration of the intellectual and academic world. The characters are well - drawn, especially Harriet Vane, and the relationship between her and Lord Peter Wimsey adds depth to the story. The mystery at the heart of the novel, set against the backdrop of a women's college, is both engaging and thought - provoking.
'Strong Poison' is also among her best. This novel is important as it introduces Harriet Vane, a strong - willed and intelligent female character. The mystery revolves around her being accused of murder, and Lord Peter Wimsey sets out to prove her innocence, and it has all the elements of a classic Sayers mystery with clever dialogue and interesting characters.
One of her best novels is 'Gaudy Night'. It combines elements of mystery and academia, with the main character Harriet Vane returning to her alma mater where strange things are afoot. Another great one is 'Strong Poison', which introduced Harriet Vane as a character and had a really engaging mystery plot.
One of the best is 'The Man with a Load of Mischief'. In this story, Sayers uses her sharp wit and detailed descriptions. The mystery is full of twists and turns. Lord Peter Wimsey's detective skills are on full display as he uncovers the truth behind the strange goings - on. The period details and the unique personalities of the characters make it a great read.
Dorothy L Sayers' first novel was 'Whose Body?'. It introduced her famous detective Lord Peter Wimsey. This novel sets the tone for her later works, with its engaging mystery and well - crafted characters.
'Busman's Honeymoon' is also quite popular. It is a Lord Peter Wimsey novel that focuses on his honeymoon, which, of course, gets interrupted by a mystery that he has to solve. It's a story that combines elements of romance and mystery in an engaging way.
'Strong Poison' is a great one. The mystery surrounding Harriet Vane's situation, being accused of murder, is really engaging. The way Dorothy L Sayers writes the courtroom scenes and the investigation that follows is really captivating, making it one of her best novels.
Lord Peter Wimsey is the detective in Dorothy Sayers novels. He is a charming and intelligent aristocrat who uses his wits to solve various mysteries.
The detective, Lord Peter Wimsey, is highly intelligent. He can analyze complex situations quickly.