A reasonably quick solve for me on this one, though I raised an eyebrow at the (unnecessary) use of an outdated derogatory term at 4d. Still, thanks to Azed.
Everyman 4,103
The PDF of the puzzle may be found at https://cdn.observer.co.uk/media/documents/obs.everyman.20250608.pdf as long as it is available.
Independent 12,069 by Amoeba
Amoeba has settled into the Saturday slot and has, shall we say, become known to this solver.
Quick Cryptic 63 by Ludwig
This week’s 11 x 11 crossword from the Guardian, intended to teach cryptic crosswords, found here
Guardian Prize 29,715 / Matilda
I was about to begin with ‘A rare but welcome appearance by Matilda in the Prize slot and, when I looked back to see when her last puzzle was, I found that Bridgesong had used those very words (in March).
Independent 12,068 by Phi
Phiday the 13th, but no nightmares here.
Guardian 29,720 / Pasquale
It’s Pasquale rounding off the weekday crosswords.
Financial Times 18,080 by SOLOMON
A tough one from SOLOMON this Friday.
Nottingham S & B puzzle 17 6 a 10 by Cagey
Firstly thanks to Cagey for bringing a puzzle along last Saturday. Given the fact that there was obviously a theme to it, we thought it would be helpful to provide a blog.
THIS is Cagey’s puzzle.
The preamble states:
Having seen 1, unreferenced entries show the subsequent line as described in 36 by 16, 32. To fully appreciate the scene one row must be regarded in its entirety, but ignoring the contributions from the two unreferenced verticals.
One clue comprises wordplay only.
With thanks to ‘Bertandjoyce’ for organising the event and to Karla and Shark for testing this.
Independent 12,067 by Dalibor
A welcome return for Dalibor today.
Enigmatic Variations 1697 The Name of the Game II by Ranunculus
As we approach the summer we have the Name of the game II – a sequel to The name of the game. A perimeter to fill with a quotation and 12 missing letters in clues that enable its author to be found. The quotation then needs to be extended over itself.
Guardian 29,719 by Fed
A very enjoyable solve with clever surfaces. My favourites were 1a, 10ac, 11ac, 2/17, and 16dn. Thanks to Fed
Financial Times 18,079 by JASON
Jason is today's compiler.
Independent 12,066 / Eccles
Eccles has set this week’s mid-week puzzle, as is his wont.