The Lone Power does seem to prefer inflicting death in a widespread manner to any other mode of operation. Yes, I've noticed what he did in our world, and that was certainly wide-spread.

[ Curufin has never regarded grace or maturity as the most important indicators of virtue or of worthiness. He does, however, realize he has made Dairine blush, and he's a little bit sorry for that. ]

I agree about the detective mysteries. Even though that's not my favorite type of literature, I do admire a well-constructed, well-written mystery. I think you're right, it's a puzzle that's made out of words instead of visual images.