If you have not read any of these books you are really missing something, as they are beautifully written and historically retrospective since the leading character is a veteran of the First World War. Add to that Hamish MacLeod, his best friend and a sergeant under his command during the war whom he had to execute because of his refusal to obey orders, haunts him.

Not in the sense of actually appearing, but through his conscience. Rutledge has never been able to "put the ghost to rest" because he questions his decision to order the execution. Hamish, therefore, rides along in the back seat of the inspector's car and offers his opinions along the way. This makes for some very interesting conversations, as you might guess.

While these books are listed as mysteries, they are written more to show the reader the inner-workings of the characters' minds. Yes, there is always someone murdered, and always a long list of possible suspects, and several twists and turns along the way to the resolution of the case.

Inspector Rutledge's personality and background perfectly support his expertise in investigation, as he does so with a hand not as heavy as that of the local police force, wherever he is "sleuthing". The manner in which he talks with suspects and the families of the victims, and his unfailing courtesy and kindness is refreshing.

There are no SWAT teams on the rooftops, no screaming through bull horns, and no rough treatment to force a confession. Inspector Rutledge is the epitome of an old-time English gentleman who just happens to be a Scotland Yard official. The joint authors of this series must work through telepathy to get their thoughts and words to meld so perfectly, as one lives in Delaware, and the other lives in North Carolina.

The stories, however, all take place in Great Britain shortly after the war, so perhaps this electronic age has made it all possible.
Review by Litera Scripta