Of seven average and better than average mystery stories published last month, three stood out as best bets. In order of merit:
HASTY WEDDING—Mignon G. Eberhart —Doubleday, Doran ($2). The marriage of a Chicago heiress, coming after the murder of her ex-suitor, arouses the suspicions of Detective Jacob Wait. Good characterizations, a sustained atmosphere of horror; one of the best mysteries to come out of Author Eberhart's typewriter.
MURDER ON SAFARI—Elspeth Huxley— Harper ($2). A jewel theft and two murders on a big-game hunting party in Africa. Addicts may spot the killer, but will probably not be able to guess his method.
THE CAIRO GARTER MURDERS—Van Wyck Mason—Crime Club ($2). Gunrunning and big-scale murders in Cairo (with the murderer putting a lady's garter on each victim's arm) make this most recent story of Captain North's adventures an intelligent, fast-paced thriller.