How to crack cryptic crosswords - Vivien Hampshire

Are you baffled by cryptic crosswords? Do you want to increase your word power and exercise your brain, but can't always make any sense of the clues? This book is packed with all the know-how, hints and tricks you will ever need to help you find the right answers every time. From clever to cunning to downright devious, all the different types of clue are here, with tips on how to recognise them, interpret them and, of course, solve them!

Not only is doing crossword puzzles a great recessionary hobby because it costs very little to pursue, but solving a daily puzzle is good for your health: it has been shown to help reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's, or at least delay its onset.

With around one hundred and fifty clues analysed and explained in full, you will soon be on your way to the satisfaction of completing your first crossword grid; impressing your family, friends and fellow commuters; and maybe even winning a prize!

Author Vivien Hampshire developed a fascination for cryptic crosswords by the age of ten, and has never looked back. She now cracks at least one puzzle every day (the more challenging and devious the better), collects and analyses some of the cleverest clues, and leads crossword workshops to help others learn to solve them. Vivien lives in Middlesex with her partner, an elderly cat, and far too many dictionaries.