Only one error (and that only the numbering of a clue) in a plain Azed this week.
Everyman 3670
Another uncontroversial, entry-level puzzle from Everyman. A bit one-dimensional, as I’ve said before; but one-dimensional is what you want when you’re a beginner or near-beginner, because that’s who the Everyman is aimed at. … Read more >>
Azed 2330 – Right & Left Competition Puzzle
An Azed competition puzzle this week – one of his ‘Right and Left’ offerings where each written clue is formed of two clues side by side without telling you which yields an answer in … Read more >>
Guardian Prize 27,118 by Shed
A witty and educational puzzle from Shed with just the right degree of difficulty for a prize.
Independent 9,470 by Tyrus
I haven’t blogged a Tyrus for quite some time, I think, and this was good fun. After a brisk start I became a bit stuck in the lower right corner, and had to … Read more >>
Enigmatic Variations No. 1264: Alternative Shortlist by Jago
Jago has primarily been a Listener setter, with puzzles going back to 1975. He has also had one Inquisitor two years ago and one EV about twelve years back. No clueing gimmicks from … Read more >>
Financial Times 15,476 by JULIUS
I found this tough going from Julius. Thanks to setter for an extra-large serving of humble pie.
Independent 9,469 / Phi
Today is Friday and thus Phi-day for the Indy crossword. I found this one towards the tougher end of the Phi spectrum and had to chip away at it for longer than I … Read more >>
Guardian Cryptic 27,123 by Crucible
Found this quite tricky…
Guardian 27,122 – Paul
My third Paul in a row as he marches through the week, and after a couple of slightly sub-par efforts he is back on form here. I particularly liked the two silly homphones, … Read more >>
Financial Times 15,475 by SLEUTH
Anyone for doubles?
Independent 9468 / Serpent
Serpent provides the challenge today. Every across entry has at least one B and the unchecked letters in the middle row spell out GOODBYE. Perhaps Serpent will drop in to … Read more >>
Financial Times 15,465 by Goliath
Prize puzzle from the Weekend FT of February 4, 2017
Independent 9,467 by Dac
The usual thing: such straightforward clear clues that there are no problems with any of this. But just as good as ever and all perfectly constructed. How Dac goes on with word after word producing transparent and utterly sound clues is amazing. The word “clunky” is less appropriate with him than with anyone.
Definitions underlined and in maroon.