Guardian 25,763 – Gordius

A lot of very simple anagrams and some other clues that let me write in the answer almost without thinking made this a very quick solve, and not very satisfying. As often with … Read more >>

Independent 8108/Anax

As always from Anax a beautifully-constructed workout. My goodness it was difficult, though. I found it as hard as anything this setter has produced, although it is none the worse for that. It … Read more >>

Financial Times 14130 Jason

Another enjoyable one from Tuesday regular Jason.  Plain sailing until the last one 19A. I got the answer, but it was one of the usually short ones that I can’t explain.  Called a friend, … Read more >>

Guardian 25,762 – Puck

It is always a joy to unravel Puck, the Magic Dragon from Ireland and today, he was in top form. Devious and cunning definitions abound but the aspect that I enjoyed most was … Read more >>

Independent 8107 by Tyrus

Tyrus is one of the harder Indy setters and often appears at the weekend.      This puzzle however I found easier than Tyrus usually is, tho harder than the Indy puzzle on average.    Solving … Read more >>

Guardian 25,761 – Rufus

Typical pleasant but gentle puzzle from Rufus. 22dn and 27ac were my favourites. Across 1 VOLTE-FACE =”A change of view” in French 6 SACK double def “Bag” + “loot” (verb) 8 DECANTER =”wine … Read more >>

Azed No 2104

Another straightforward puzzle from Azed, with the usual quota of obscure and historic words, necessitating many checks in Chambers.  I haven’t attempted to explain the meanings of the answers, just tried to show … Read more >>

Independent 8105 / Phi

A typical gentle (to use a word The Times uses for some of its Sudokus) sound crossword from Phi today. Nothing very controversial I think, and the usual musical references. Surprise surprise, I … Read more >>

Financial Times 14,127 by Hamilton

A mixed challenge       Across 9 HEARTACHE (anguish) HE (man) ART (skill) ACHE (longing) 10 GRIPE (complain) G[eorge] RIPE (ready) 11 UNCANNY (mysterious) UNC[le] (relative cut short) ANN (girl) [holida]Y 12 … Read more >>