Cryptic crossword No 1,766

Thanks Flush, that was a bit tougher than your last but finding there was a theme helped me crack a few of the more obscure ones. I particularly enjoyed and admired 1a, 4a. 9a, 24a, 27a, 2d, 3d, 25d among others. Some (e.g. 16a, 7d, 18d) were in my nho category - I must get out more… But overall an enjoyable challenge I found. A few spoilery comments in reply…

Very good! A few I didn't understand/couldn't parse, but far more that I liked a lot. Favourites 9a, 11a, 21a, 27a, 3d, 4d (COTD), 15d and 25d. Spoilers...

I'd agree this is tougher than the last one, Flush. You choose some interesting indicators, not all of which are immediately fathomable. But that's OK. I liked quite a few; faves inc 11a, 14a, 21a, 27a, 3d, 8d and 25d though not hugely keen on the link. Spoilers in reply. Thanks. PM

I enjoyed this, thanks Flush. Very tricky as others have said and I did need some e-help in the end. Favourites: 11a, 14a, 27a, 3d, 5d, 15d and the 19d/22d combo. Spoilers …

Well, I especially liked this one. Can you guess why? Vive le 11a! 7d was my favourite, great surface connection. Also particularly enjoyed the surface of 13a. Looking forward to future puzzles!