The Pointing Man A Burmese Mystery By: Marjorie Douie
Marjorie Douie’s novel, The Pointing Man: A Burmese Mystery, takes readers on a captivating journey through the vibrant and exotic landscapes of 1920s Burma. Blending historical fiction with a compelling mystery, Douie skillfully unravels a tale that is both culturally rich and intellectually satisfying. Set in the picturesque city of Mandalay, the story follows the life of unconventional British expatriate, Frances Ross, who finds herself caught in the midst of a complex web of intrigue. When a mysterious Burmese man is found dead, seemingly pointing towards a hidden treasure, Frances embarks on a perilous quest to uncover the truth behind his murder and the elusive treasure. What makes Douie’s novel stand out is her remarkable attention to detail and her vivid descriptions, which effortlessly transport readers into the heart of Burma. With lush prose and meticulous research, she paints a mesmerizing picture of the country's captivating beauty, varied customs, and rich cultural heritage. From bustling marketplaces to opulent palaces, readers are treated to a sensory experience that leaves them immersed in the world she has created. In addition to its scenic backdrop, The Pointing Man beautifully delves into the complex colonial-era dynamics between the British ruling class and the Burmese locals. Douie explores the clash of cultures, the struggles for independence, and the tensions that arise from an unbalanced power dynamic. These historical complexities add depth and authenticity to the narrative, making it more than just a typical mystery. The protagonist, Frances Ross, is a refreshing departure from conventional female leads. She is a strong-willed and independent woman who defies societal norms and expectations. Frances’s determination and intelligence make her a compelling character, driving the story forward with her fearless pursuit of truth and justice. Furthermore, the plot itself is intricately woven, with unexpected twists and turns that will keep even the most seasoned mystery readers engaged. As Frances follows the breadcrumb trail left by the pointing man, she encounters a myriad of intriguing characters, each with their own secrets and motives. Douie masterfully creates suspense, gradually revealing clues that lead to a climactic and satisfying resolution. However, there are some minor drawbacks to the novel. The pacing occasionally stumbles, with certain sections feeling slightly sluggish and lacking in momentum. Additionally, some readers may find it challenging to keep track of the numerous characters and their relationships due to the intricate nature of the plot. Overall, The Pointing Man is an exceptional work of historical mystery fiction that enthralls with its exotic setting, well-researched historical backdrop, and complex characters. Marjorie Douie demonstrates her prowess as a storyteller, capturing the essence of 1920s Burma while delivering an enthralling mystery. Fans of both historical fiction and mystery genres are sure to find this book a captivating and rewarding read. First Page: THE POINTING MAN A Burmese Mystery BY MARJORIE DOUIE NEW YORK E.P. DUTTON & COMPANY 1920 CONTENTS I IN WHICH THE DESTINY THAT PLAYS WITH MEN MOVES THE PIECES ON THE BOARD II TELLS THE STORY OF A LOSS, AND HOW IT AFFECTED THE REV. FRANCIS HEATH III INDICATES A STANDPOINT COMMONLY SUPPOSED TO REPRESENT THE PRINCIPLES OF THE JESUIT FATHERS IV INTRODUCES THE READER TO MRS. WILDER IN A SECRETIVE MOOD V CRAVEN JOICEY, THE BANKER, FINDS THAT HIS MEMORY IS NOT TO BE TRUSTED VI TELLS HOW ATKINS EXPLAINS FACTS BY PEOPLE AND NOT PEOPLE BY FACTS, AND HOW HARTLEY, HEAD OF THE POLICE, SMELLS THE SCENT OF APPLE ORCHARDS GROWING IN A FOOL'S PARADISE VII FINDS THE REV. FRANCIS HEATH READING GEORGE HERBERT'S POEMS, AND LEAVES HIM PLEDGED TO A POSSIBLY COMPROMISING SILENCE VIII SHOWS HOW THE CLOAK OF DARKNESS OF ONE NIGHT HIDES MANY EMOTIONS, AND MRS. WILDER IS FRANKLY INQUISITIVE IX MRS. WILDER IS PRESENTED IN A MELTING MOOD, AND DRAYCOTT WILDER IS FORCED TO RECALL THE LINES COMMENCING "A FOOL THERE WAS" X IN WHICH CRAVEN JOICEY IS OVERCOME BY A SUDDEN INDISPOSITION, AND HARTLEY, WITHOUT LOOKING FOR HIM, FINDS THE MAN HE WANTED XI SHOWS HOW THE "WHISPER FROM THE DAWN OF LIFE" ENABLES CORYNDON TO TAKE THE DRIFTING THREADS BETWEEN HIS... Continue reading book >>

The Pointing Man A Burmese Mystery By: Marjorie Douie

Marjorie Douie’s novel, The Pointing Man: A Burmese Mystery, takes readers on a captivating journey through the vibrant and exotic landscapes of 1920s Burma. Blending historical fiction with a compelling mystery, Douie skillfully unravels a tale that is both culturally rich and intellectually satisfying.

Set in the picturesque city of Mandalay, the story follows the life of unconventional British expatriate, Frances Ross, who finds herself caught in the midst of a complex web of intrigue. When a mysterious Burmese man is found dead, seemingly pointing towards a hidden treasure, Frances embarks on a perilous quest to uncover the truth behind his murder and the elusive treasure.

What makes Douie’s novel stand out is her remarkable attention to detail and her vivid descriptions, which effortlessly transport readers into the heart of Burma. With lush prose and meticulous research, she paints a mesmerizing picture of the country's captivating beauty, varied customs, and rich cultural heritage. From bustling marketplaces to opulent palaces, readers are treated to a sensory experience that leaves them immersed in the world she has created.

In addition to its scenic backdrop, The Pointing Man beautifully delves into the complex colonial-era dynamics between the British ruling class and the Burmese locals. Douie explores the clash of cultures, the struggles for independence, and the tensions that arise from an unbalanced power dynamic. These historical complexities add depth and authenticity to the narrative, making it more than just a typical mystery.

The protagonist, Frances Ross, is a refreshing departure from conventional female leads. She is a strong-willed and independent woman who defies societal norms and expectations. Frances’s determination and intelligence make her a compelling character, driving the story forward with her fearless pursuit of truth and justice.

Furthermore, the plot itself is intricately woven, with unexpected twists and turns that will keep even the most seasoned mystery readers engaged. As Frances follows the breadcrumb trail left by the pointing man, she encounters a myriad of intriguing characters, each with their own secrets and motives. Douie masterfully creates suspense, gradually revealing clues that lead to a climactic and satisfying resolution.

However, there are some minor drawbacks to the novel. The pacing occasionally stumbles, with certain sections feeling slightly sluggish and lacking in momentum. Additionally, some readers may find it challenging to keep track of the numerous characters and their relationships due to the intricate nature of the plot.

Overall, The Pointing Man is an exceptional work of historical mystery fiction that enthralls with its exotic setting, well-researched historical backdrop, and complex characters. Marjorie Douie demonstrates her prowess as a storyteller, capturing the essence of 1920s Burma while delivering an enthralling mystery. Fans of both historical fiction and mystery genres are sure to find this book a captivating and rewarding read.

First Page:

THE POINTING MAN

A Burmese Mystery

BY MARJORIE DOUIE

NEW YORK E.P. DUTTON & COMPANY 1920

CONTENTS

IN WHICH THE DESTINY THAT PLAYS WITH MEN MOVES THE PIECES ON THE BOARD

TELLS THE STORY OF A LOSS, AND HOW IT AFFECTED THE REV. FRANCIS HEATH

III

INDICATES A STANDPOINT COMMONLY SUPPOSED TO REPRESENT THE PRINCIPLES OF THE JESUIT FATHERS

INTRODUCES THE READER TO MRS. WILDER IN A SECRETIVE MOOD

CRAVEN JOICEY, THE BANKER, FINDS THAT HIS MEMORY IS NOT TO BE TRUSTED

TELLS HOW ATKINS EXPLAINS FACTS BY PEOPLE AND NOT PEOPLE BY FACTS, AND HOW HARTLEY, HEAD OF THE POLICE, SMELLS THE SCENT OF APPLE ORCHARDS GROWING IN A FOOL'S PARADISE

VII

FINDS THE REV. FRANCIS HEATH READING GEORGE HERBERT'S POEMS, AND LEAVES HIM PLEDGED TO A POSSIBLY COMPROMISING SILENCE

VIII

SHOWS HOW THE CLOAK OF DARKNESS OF ONE NIGHT HIDES MANY EMOTIONS, AND MRS. WILDER IS FRANKLY INQUISITIVE

MRS. WILDER IS PRESENTED IN A MELTING MOOD, AND DRAYCOTT WILDER IS FORCED TO RECALL THE LINES COMMENCING "A FOOL THERE WAS"

IN WHICH CRAVEN JOICEY IS OVERCOME BY A SUDDEN INDISPOSITION, AND HARTLEY, WITHOUT LOOKING FOR HIM, FINDS THE MAN HE WANTED

SHOWS HOW THE "WHISPER FROM THE DAWN OF LIFE" ENABLES CORYNDON TO TAKE THE DRIFTING THREADS BETWEEN HIS... Continue reading book >>

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