Cryptic crossword No 735

This is a cracking puzzle, Samsa. Well done indeed. Surface themes are always a bit overwhelming but this worked nicely - perhaps because we are so used to seeing various criminal references in puzzles. A nice variety of cluing and different incorporation of theme words and pretty tight throughout. I particularly liked: 9a (lol), 18a (misdirecting nicely), 20a (lovely), 1d (simple), 6d (very clever), 13d (lovely), 17d (fun). Spoilers in Reply. Thanks. PM

Really enjoyed this, Samsa, thanks! I was caught out by similar points to PM, so won’t repeat. Some great invention and a sense of fun throughout with particular favourites: 9A, 18A, 5D, 7D, 13D (COTD), 14D, 17D and 22D

Thanks Samsa, very much enjoyed solving this. Impressive handling of the theme and carrying it through all the surfaces. Particular favourites were 18a (clever def), 20a, 7d, 13d (lovely, and apt, spot), 17d and 22d (I enjoyed assembling this).