Golden Age of Detective Fiction

The Twyford Code by Janice Hallett is a mystery novel that will pique your curiosity. It revolves around Steven ‘Smithy’ Smith, a recently released ex-convict who becomes consumed with the quest to unveil a mysterious code rumored to be concealed within the innocent pages of children’s books by the enigmatic author Edith Twyford.

The story begins with Smithy, a man with a troubled past, recalling his childhood. His remedial English teacher, Miss Iles, introduced him and his classmates to the books of Edith Twyford. These books were rumored to contain hidden messages and codes, a fascination that stays with Smithy into adulthood. Upon his release from prison, Smithy, driven by his past and curiosity, investigates these childhood mysteries using a series of voice recordings on an old iPhone.

As Smithy reconnects with former classmates and embarks on his investigation, he uncovers a labyrinth of clues and puzzles, reminiscent of Agatha Christie’s style but with a contemporary twist. The novel’s structure, presented through transcriptions of these audio recordings, offers a unique, somewhat fragmented narrative style that is both intriguing and challenging for readers.

The Review

Janice Hallett’s The Twyford Code is a masterfully woven tale that entices readers into a labyrinthine mystery while exploring deep, resonant themes of alcoholism and the quest for familial reconnection. Presented in a unique format of voice recordings transcribed to text, the novel immerses readers in an intriguing puzzle that blends elements of a treasure hunt with personal redemption.

The most captivating aspect of The Twyford Code is its innovative use of voice recordings. These recordings, transcribed into text by an automated system, form the very fabric of the narrative. The protagonist, Steven Smith, a former convict, uses an old iPhone to document his investigation into the mysterious disappearance of his former teacher, Miss Iles, who was obsessed with a book by Edith Twyford. This format creates a sense of immediacy and intimacy, drawing readers into the heart of the mystery. The transcriptions are imperfect, often muddling words and adding to the enigmatic atmosphere of the story. This technique is not just a gimmick; it underscores the themes of miscommunication and the unreliability of memory, adding a layer of intrigue to the narrative.

At its core, The Twyford Code is a complex and multi-layered mystery—the narrative twists and turns, leading Steven through cryptic clues hidden within Twyford’s children’s books. The labyrinthine nature of the plot keeps readers engaged, with each chapter revealing new secrets and deeper conspiracies. Hallett excels at maintaining suspense, skillfully dropping hints and red herrings that challenge the protagonist and the reader to piece together the truth. Blending a modern treasure hunt with literary puzzles evokes the spirit of classic mystery novels, yet Hallett’s approach feels fresh and innovative.

Steven’s journey is as much about solving the external mystery as confronting his inner demons. The theme of alcoholism is poignantly explored through his character. His struggle with alcohol addiction is portrayed with sensitivity and realism, highlighting the impact on his relationships, especially his son, and his perception of reality. Steven’s attempts to stay sober while unraveling the code reflect his desire for personal redemption and clarity. Hallett does not shy away from depicting the challenges of recovery, making Steven’s victories and setbacks feel authentic and profoundly affecting.

Parallel to the mystery and personal struggle is Steven’s quest to reconnect with his estranged son, who has made great strides in his life. His son, a college professor and father himself, has been deeply wounded by his father’s imprisonment and gang life. Smith’s attempt at reconciliation by relating the story of the only person who ever cared for him- Miss Iles and her love of Edith Twyford’s book is a window into the bright young Steven Smith who was eventually subsumed into a gang family once her left school after Miss Iles left.

This subplot adds a profound emotional depth to the novel, juxtaposing the intellectual pursuit of the Twyford Code with the heartfelt need for belonging and forgiveness. Steven’s interactions with his son and his reflections on his past mistakes provide a poignant counterbalance to the cerebral aspects of the mystery. This theme is seamlessly woven into the narrative, enriching the story with hope and reconciliation and inviting readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level.

As a child of an alcoholic, I found Steven’s attempt at reconciliation challenging to accept because if I were in his son’s shoes- I wouldn’t want to go on a scavenger hunt to learn about my father- I would like him to say, sorry and be consistently present in my life. However, as my alcoholic parent and I have started the painful reconnection process- very soon after reading this book last summer- I understand that a fun, entertaining treasure hunt would be, at times, preferable to the mundane, painful reality of showing up for each other. This is the beauty of fiction.

Janice Hallett’s The Twyford Code is a captivating blend of mystery, personal struggle, and emotional redemption. The innovative use of voice recordings as a narrative device, the intricately plotted mystery, and the exploration of deep, relatable themes make it a standout novel. While some may find the transcription format challenging, it ultimately enhances the storytelling, drawing readers into a vivid, immersive experience. The Twyford Code is a testament to Hallett’s skill as a storyteller, offering a rich, satisfying read that lingers long after the final page.