Well, 'A Journeyman to Grief' is also quite well - liked. It delves deeper into the personal and professional life of Inspector Murdoch. The mystery in this one keeps the readers on their toes, with unexpected twists and turns throughout the story.
The main character is Inspector William Murdoch. He is a very intelligent and dedicated detective. He uses modern (for the time) forensic techniques to solve crimes.
'The Bell' is also a great Iris Murdoch novel. It delves into themes of morality, religion, and community. The story is set in an Anglican lay community, and through the different characters' experiences, Murdoch examines the nature of good and evil. The title refers to the bell that has a significant meaning for the community, both physically and symbolically.
It's hard to pick just one, but 'The Sea, The Sea' is often considered one of her greatest works. It's rich in character development and philosophical depth.
One of her highly regarded novels is 'The Sea, The Sea'. It's a complex exploration of love, jealousy, and self - discovery. The main character, Charles Arrowby, retreats to the coast to write his memoirs but gets entangled in old relationships and new obsessions. Murdoch's masterful use of language and her in - depth exploration of human nature make this novel a standout in her oeuvre.
I think it depends on personal preferences. 'The Sea, The Sea' is highly regarded by many for its beautiful prose and philosophical undertones. However, there's no definitive answer as to which is her absolute best novel.