May 29, 2009 – Big Dave's Crossword Blog

ST 2485 – Review

Sunday Telegraph Cryptic No 2485 – Review

A full analysis by Big Dave

+ – + – + – + – + – + – + – + – + – + – +

BD Rating – Difficulty ** Enjoyment ***

This one was a bit of a stroll in the park.  It was still enjoyable, but I do prefer my puzzles to be a bit harder than this was.

Continue reading “ST 2485 – Review”

Toughie 155

Toughie No 155 by Elgar

This one went off the top end of the difficulty scale!

+ – + – + – + – + – + – +

BD Rating – Difficulty ***** Enjoyment *****

When you see Elgar’s name you know you are in for a difficult time.  This one is certainly no exception.  There were a mere handful of relatively easy clues, and some where, despite getting the answer, I have struggled to get all of the wordplay.  If you have seen anything that I missed, please add a comment.

Elgar was at the Sloggers and Betters evening last week, but he didn’t warn me that this one was in the pipeline.

Continue reading “Toughie 155”

DT 25941

Daily Telegraph Cryptic No 25941

Hints and tips by Libellule

+ – + – + – + – + – + – + – + – +

BD Rating – Difficulty *** Enjoyment ***

A nice easy start with simple anagrams at 1a and 2d and then it got a bit more complicated… it also helps if you get 13a early on, as the “four cornery” feel to the crossword, needs the checking letters from this one to make life a bit easier. Otherwise, some excellent clues, and a well thought out and crafted crossword.

Continue reading “DT 25941”