Cryptic crossword No 3,252

A hoot as always, Baldur. The odd dose of salt here and there but so what? I’m a fine one to talk anyroad! 20a, 23a, 2d (you’ve finally broken me with your “little(s)”!) 5d, 13d and 21d are all great fun. Spoilers-ish …

Thanks Baldur for the fun. I was attracted to this via the cover photo but I can't figure out how it relates to your crossword. No matter, there was lots to like including 8a, 14a, 22a, 26a, and 1d. I revealed 19d; given where and when I was raised I still have to remind myself that 'offensive American woman' is indeed offensive. One of these days, I guess.😄

Phew, that was quite a workout Baldur, thanks. I was hoping for something a little easier after having my brain pummelled by ALP’s earlier, but I reckon it was more difficult judging by when my reveals started! Plenty of fun and imagination, though, as we have come to expect. Favourites: 20a, 23a, 1d, 2d and 5d.

Hi Baldur, a cracking set of clues with very little given away in the surfaces to suggest the wordplay within. I particularly liked 5d and 7d as examples of that art. Other favourites included 2d, 6d, 16d, 10a, 14a, 20a and 23a. Much like Coot I was however defeated by a set of crossing clues on the LHS 3d, 12a, 13d, 22a and 19d. I must try harder!

Well, everything solved and pretty much everything parsed. The eyebrows were given a degree of work but there's nothing unusual in that. Likes inc 11a, 20a, 1d, 6d, 13d and 21d. Thanks. PM