The usual top-quality puzzle, perhaps a little easier that the last couple of toughies we’ve had.

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I found this to be one of the hardest Phi puzzles we’ve had in a while, eventually having to give up with 4 clues unsolved. There are a few obscure words in here which suggested a possible Nina, but I can’t spot anything obvious. Perfectly sound clueing as always, although I must admit I haven’t got a Scooby as to how 7A or 9D work!

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I had a great time with this puzzle. Not as hard as Viking usually is, but with lots of clever wordplay. Thank you Viking.

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Perhaps those who disliked the three previous “thematic” puzzles this week will have enjoyed this one. I have to say my heart sank when I saw it was a Rover, and solving it didn’t change my feelings. One or two nice clues here, but far too many weak ones for my taste, particularly some of cryptic/double definitions.

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How do you refer to your Significant Other?
Tyrus reminds us of a few choice expressions with perhaps the notable omission of “She Who Must Be Obeyed”. Read the rest of this entry »

Once a year, on average, two like-minded friends (I and
A) and myself (K) meet for an
IKA weekend of crosswords and beer. This year we chose to meet
in my home town, Edinburgh and, coincidentally, it was my week to blog the
Inquisitor. Allowing for diversions, like “whose round is it?” and long,
rambling anecdotes, we polished off IQ1116 in just over an hour. Perhaps
I and A will find time to add their comments
later.

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