The scheduled blogger can’t make it today so I’ve volunteered to step in
Independent 12,355 by Raider
The last Raider we blogged was in February last year. At the time, we commented that it was 10 months since his previous puzzle and that we hoped that we wouldn’t have to wait another 10 months before the next one. In fact we had to wait 7 months for his next one in Sept 25 and it’s now 8 months further on.
Was it worth the wait?
Enigmatic Variations 1745 Omissions by Kruger
A perimeter containing six members of a larger set with something omitted (teh same thing) from each one. 11 additional words in clues hinting at the theme with 4 unclued answers also guiding. … Read more >>
Guardian Cryptic crossword No 30,006 by Paul
The puzzle may be found at https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/cryptic/30006. – and Man Ray
Guardian 30,005 / Pavo
A second appearance from Pavo, a new name for me
Independent 12,354 / Jeemz
This appears to be the third puzzle by this compiler in the Indy, and it is certainly the first one that I have solved and blogged.
Financial Times 18,371 by MONK
Good fun from Monk this morning!
Inquisitor 1958: The Shivers by Charybdis
Charybdis provides this week’s IQ challenge.
Guardian Cryptic crossword No 30,004 by Philistine
A very enjoyable puzzle – I particularly liked 15ac, 25ac, 18dn, and 20dn. Thanks to Philistine
Independent 12353 / Lette
Lette set a few Independent crosswords in the first half of 2025, but this is the first for nearly a year.
Financial Times 18,370 by PETO
I found today’s offering from Peto rather on the sophisticated side, but ultimately solvable.
Spectator 2749: Orbital by Doc
This week’s Spectator is entitled Orbital and is set by Doc
Financial Times 18,369 by BOBCAT
BOBCAT kicks off the week…
Independent 12,352/Kairos
Kairos is a long-standing but now occasional setter for the Independent. A pleasure to see his name crop up on my watch, because I’ve always enjoyed his puzzles.