When his friend Charles Pitt-Heron vanishes mysteriously, Sir Edward Leithen is at first only mildly concerned. But a series of strange events that follow Pitt-Heron's disappearance convince Leithen that he is dealing with a sinister secret society. Their codename is 'The Power-House'. The authorities are unable to act without evidence. As he gets deeper involved with the underworld, Leithen finds himself facing the enemy alone and in terrible danger. AUTHBIO: John Buchan, Baron Tweedsmuir, was a Scottish diplomat, barrister, journalist, historian, poet and novelist. He wrote adventure novels, short-story collections and biographies. His passion for the Scottish countryside is reflected in much of his writing. Buchan's adventure stories are high in romance and are peopled by a large cast of characters. Richard Hannay, Dickson McCunn and Sir Edward Leithen are three that reappear several times. Alfred Hitchcock adapted his most famous book The Thirty-Nine Steps for screen.

When his friend Charles Pitt-Heron vanishes mysteriously, Sir Edward Leithen is at first only mildly concerned. But a series of strange events that follow Pitt-Heron's disappearance convince Leithen that he is dealing with a sinister secret society. Their codename is 'The Power-House'. The authorities are unable to act without evidence. As he gets deeper involved with the underworld, Leithen finds himself facing the enemy alone and in terrible danger.

2007-02-10 A bravura reading let down by poor recording quality

The Power House offers a well-crafted yarn, of the sort we may expect from John Buchan. As some points it is rather predictable, as parts of the plot are reminiscent of The Thirty Nine Steps. Still, Peter Joyce gives a splendid performance, with well depicted characters, and a nicely modulated voice. He is badly let down by a poor, muffled sound quality on the recording. I have unfortunately noticed this on other tape sets issued on the Assembled Stories label. This is most unfortunate, as this label is much to be congratulated on its adventurous choice of books to record, choosing less known and unjustly neglected works.