Product Description

This set of four puzzle collections from some of the most popular "Guardian" cryptic crossword compilers allows fans of the cryptic to get to grips with their favourite setter. It includes introductions from each setter, and a posthumous introduction to Bunthorne's puzzles by series editor Hugh Stephenson. With a range of difficulties included in the series, from the easier-to-tackle Rufus to the brain-busting Paul, the collection caters for all levels of ability.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #92805 in Books
• Published on: 2007-10-17
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 240 pages

Customer Reviews

"Guardian" Cryptic Crosswords Setters Series : Gordius
This book is for genuine crossword enthusiasts and, as such, the clues are challenging which is great. They are also extremely well constructed and are a delight to get your teeth into. I thoroughly recommend this for anyone who loves crosswords.

Gentle but testing
As a devotee of the Guardian's cryptic crossword for nearly 20 years, I find their weekly selection nearly always runs the gamut between gently engaging and fiendishly impenetrable. Sitting nearer to the gentle side of the equation is Rufus. In my experience, he's reasonably faithful to the classic Ximenean rules and is rarely so obscure that you have to go running to Google or the dictionary. Perfect for enthusiasts who want an enjoyable romp rather than a teeth-grinding hour of agony.

Hard and clever clues
I've worked through the puzzles by Rufus and Gordius. Both compilers have provided some clever and amusing clues which can provide hours, in fact days, of entertainment. I preferred those by Rufus. They are a little easier and often witty. Some of those by Gordius have obscure solutions -- rare words, place names and so on -- which it seems to me require rather specialist knowledge.