Mary Roberts Rinehart was a prolific author, often called the American Agatha Christie. She is considered the originator of the "Had-I-But-Known" school of mystery writing. While her output spanned various genres, her murder mysteries garnered particular critical appreciation for their suspense and unexpected turns.
Set in an eerie old mansion, the story unfolds around a family haunted by fear and secrecy. The locked bedroom doors, secured from the outside, hint at dark mysteries within, while the sudden dismissal of the staff adds to the tension. As the narrative progresses, the chilling atmosphere and the family's struggles to confront their fears create a gripping tale of suspense and intrigue.
An elite older lady, along with her anxious Irish maid and niece, spends the summer in a country house that comes with its own set of mysterious servants. As strange events unfold within the mansion, they become entangled in a plot involving the recent death of the homeowner, a banker, and the subsequent failure of his bank. Suspicion arises around a charming young bank clerk, who captures the heart of the niece, adding to the tension and intrigue of their summer retreat.
The mysterious disappearance of debutante Clare March raises questions about her fate and the last person seen with her, a blond man who is not her fiancé. As rumors of elopement swirl, the search for Clare intensifies, leading to the enigmatic old lady with a buckled bag that may hold crucial secrets. The story unfolds with suspense and intrigue, exploring themes of identity and the unknown.
In this twisty whodunnit from "the grand dame of American crime fiction" (CrimeReads), the murder of a wealthy widow brings the secrets of her aristocratic neighbors to light Even in the early 1930s, Crescent Place is a neighborhood out of the past. The five Victorian mansions and the remote patch of pasture placed between them have the air of the 1890s, even as the city—once miles away from this idyllic retreat—encroaches and surrounds the enclave. But while these rarified residences may appear calm on the outside, their isolated interiors contain dark secrets, prolonged feuds, and generations of high-toned trouble. In these houses are a husband and wife who fight constantly, and another couple who hasn’t spoken to each other in two decades. There is a widow in permanent mourning and a daughter whom the newspapers call psychotic. And there is a bedridden old woman who is about to be killed with an ax. When her murder shatters the well-mannered quiet of the cul-de-sac, the tabloids delight in trumpeting Crescent Place’s peculiarities. But as the search for the killer intensifies, it becomes clear that the area’s strangest secrets have yet to be revealed. A suspenseful mystery enriched by sly social satire and set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, The Album is a memorable whodunnit from one of the most beloved and best selling authors of the Golden Age era.
Set in a large house under quarantine due to a smallpox outbreak affecting the butler, this romantic comedy blends humor with mystery. The story follows a group of vibrant young characters as they navigate unexpected situations and evolving relationships while confined together. As tensions rise and secrets unfold, the characters must confront their feelings and desires, leading to a delightful exploration of love and companionship amidst the chaos.
Someone’s trying to kill the head of the Fairbanks estate, and only her nurse can protect her. The arsenic in her sugar bowl was wealthy widow Eliza Fairbanks’ first clue that somebody wanted her dead. The nightly plagues of bats, birds, and rats unleashed in her bedroom were the second indication, an obvious attempt to scare the life out of the delicate dowager. So instead of calling the exterminator, Eliza calls the cops, who send Hilda Adams — “Miss Pinkerton” to the folks at the bureau — to go undercover and investigate. Hilda Adams is a nurse, not a detective — at least, not technically speaking. But then, nurses do have the opportunity to see things that the police can’t, and to witness the inner workings of a household when the authorities aren’t around. From the moment Adams arrives at the Fairbanks mansion, confronted by a swarm of shady and oddball relatives, many of whom seem desperate for their inheritance, it’s clear that something unseemly is at work in the estate. But not even she is prepared for the web of intrigue that awaits her therein. Reissued for the first time in over twenty years, and featuring one of Mary Roberts Rinehart’s only series characters, The Haunted Lady is the thrilling follow-up to Miss Pinkerton, also available from American Mystery Classics. The books can be read in any order.
The narrative centers on Bab's transformation from a sheltered girl to an independent young woman in a small American town. As she navigates the challenges of life, themes of personal growth, love, and self-discovery emerge. Rinehart intricately explores family dynamics and societal expectations, reflecting the cultural nuances of the early 20th century. The character-driven storytelling highlights Bab's development and the emotional depth of her relationships, making the novel a timeless exploration of resilience and the human spirit's adaptability.
Set in 1904 Allegheny City, this murder mystery unfolds as Mrs. Pittman, a boarding house owner, becomes convinced that a murder has occurred following the disappearance of tenant Jennie Brice. With a blood-stained rope and towel as evidence, she defies the police's dismissal of the case due to the lack of a corpse. Determined to uncover the truth, Pittman uses Jennie's apartment key to investigate, leading her on a perilous quest for justice amidst skepticism and danger.
Murder leads to scandal at a wealthy woman's mansion in this mystery from one of the bestselling authors of the 20th century.
Marcia Lloyd and her brother Arthur have spent every summer of their lives exploring the grand halls and seaside grounds of their family's idyllic vacation home, a gorgeous old mansion called Sunset House built by their grandfather. But when Arthur's ex-wife Juliette arrives at Sunset to demand alimony from him, things take a dark turn and Juliette disappears--her body found a week later. What sordid secrets lie within the creaky old manor? Marcia and the local sheriff Russell Shand must work against the clock to find the murderer in this seemingly utopian upper-class hamlet
Offering a refreshing take on classic romance fiction, this collection presents stories that avoid overly sentimental dialogue and clichés. Mary Roberts Rinehart crafts narratives that blend genuine emotion with relatable characters, appealing to readers seeking depth in their romantic tales.
The narrative unfolds as Margery Fleming enlists Knox to investigate her father's suspicious suicide, marked by the absence of a weapon. As Knox delves deeper, he encounters a series of enigmatic occurrences, including missing money and lost pearls. The plot, crafted by Mary Roberts Rinehart, is rich in action and melodrama, featuring well-developed characters that enhance the intrigue. With a clever distribution of clues, the story keeps readers engaged as Knox unravels the mystery surrounding Allan Fleming's death.
About the Author Mary Roberts Rinehart (1876-1958) was an American novelist and playwright best known for her mystery stories. Rinehart's work is very different from the cliches of Rinehart criticism. It has a lot in common with hard-boiled school, in both style and subject. It also is part of the American school of "scientific" detection. In fact, all three groups, scientific, hard-boiled, and Rinehart show common features. They form an American school that mixes adventure and detection. There is an attempt at realism in the depiction of modern life, with many different classes, corruption high and low, and a great diversity of characters. Her most memorable tales combined murder, love, ingenuity, and humor in a style that was distinctly her own. While her general novels were her best-selling books, she was most highly regarded by critics for her carefully plotted murder mysteries. It was one of her books that produced the phrase, "The butler did it," and in her prime, she was more famous than her chief rival, England's Agatha Christie. Her autobiography, My Story, appeared in 1931 and was revised in 1948. At Rinehart's death her books had sold more than 10 million copies.
A comfortable life is upended when the narrator embarks on an unexpected adventure at Sunnyside, leading to harrowing experiences that leave lasting marks. Reflecting on the chaos and challenges faced, the narrator grapples with the toll it has taken, both physically and emotionally, as evidenced by graying hair and a shift in demeanor. The struggle against reminders of unpleasantness reveals a deeper conflict within, highlighting themes of change, resilience, and the complexities of embracing new experiences later in life.
"This is the story of how a middle-aged spinster lost her mind, deserted her domestic gods in the city, took a furnished house for the summer out of town, and found herself involved in one of those mysterious crimes that keep our newspapers and detective agencies happy and prosperous." So begins The Circular Staircase, a book that has been hailed as the best novel by the most important American woman mystery writer of our time. Rachel Innes was relieved when Gertrude and Halsey arrived to keep their dear old aunt company and allow her the courtesy of a decent night's sleep. Unfortunately, the explosive sound of a gunshot the next night shattered Rachel's hopes. And the body at the foot of the circular staircase ensured many sleepless nights to follow.
An attorney with a briefcase full of vital evidence narrowly avoids assassination but finds himself accused of murder. Written by "the American Agatha Christie" and the first detective novel to crack national bestseller lists.
An old mansion, and a killer on the loose - nurse turned private detective for the police is in more danger than ever before. Superb classic crime from 'A true mistress of the mystery' Charlotte Macleod
Set against a backdrop of mystery, the story follows a middle-aged spinster who, encouraged by her niece and nephew, rents a country house previously owned by a bank defaulter. As they settle in, they become embroiled in a series of crimes linked to hidden stolen securities. This novel is pivotal in establishing the "Had-I-But-Known" style of mystery writing, where the protagonist's questionable decisions extend the plot. Rinehart's influence on the genre is notable, with her contributions shaping classic mystery tropes still referenced today.
Preserving a classical work, this edition of Tish plays the game has been meticulously reformatted and retyped to ensure clarity and readability. Alpha Editions aims to maintain its significance for both present and future generations by providing a modern format that enhances the original text. This effort highlights the importance of the book in human history, ensuring it remains accessible and appreciated.
Set against the backdrop of World War I, the story follows Phyllis, a young woman who becomes unwittingly involved in espionage and international intrigue. As she witnesses secretive activities that jeopardize national security, her journey is filled with danger and suspense. Mary Roberts Rinehart, known for her mastery in thriller and suspense, combines elements of mystery and romance while portraying the societal challenges of wartime. The novel captures the era's anxieties and adventures, delivering a gripping narrative that keeps readers engaged.
Lily Cardew struggles to reintegrate into her affluent family's life after her Red Cross service during the war. Seeking independence from her strict grandfather, she visits a distant relative and inadvertently gets involved with an anarchist group. Simultaneously, her war companion, William Wallace Cameron, engages in the political turmoil from a different perspective, becoming instrumental in efforts to prevent an impending revolt. The narrative explores themes of personal freedom, societal expectations, and the complexities of political activism.
Set against a backdrop of crime and suspense, the narrative follows Sidney Prale as he returns to New York after years abroad, only to find himself entangled in a web of intrigue linked to a mysterious letter "K." As he becomes a prime suspect in a series of bizarre events, Prale navigates a landscape filled with deception and unexpected twists. Mary Roberts Rinehart masterfully weaves a tale that immerses readers in tension, showcasing her exceptional talent in the thriller genre with clever writing and gripping plot developments.
Set during the early days of The Great War, the narrative follows Sara Lee, who initially appears content in her aunt and uncle's home, dreaming of a future with her beau, Harvey. However, her life takes a fantastical turn as she enters a magical forest, becoming a princess alongside the enigmatic Prince Henri. This enchanting interlude ultimately transforms her perspective, leading her back to reality with a renewed sense of purpose as she knits for soldiers, carrying the memories of her adventure and a new hope in her heart.
Set against a backdrop that blends vintage charm with modern sensibilities, the narrative explores timeless themes of love, identity, and the passage of time. Characters navigate their relationships and personal growth while facing challenges that resonate with today’s audience. The story's unique setting and engaging dialogue create a rich tapestry of experiences, making it both nostalgic and relevant. Readers will find themselves immersed in a world where past and present collide, offering a fresh perspective on familiar emotions and situations.
Set on a remote coastal island, the story follows Halsey, a young man seeking a peaceful summer retreat with friends. Their plans take a dark turn when a mysterious murder disrupts the tranquility, leading to an atmosphere of suspicion among the residents. Rinehart skillfully employs twists and turns, unveiling hidden motives and secrets that heighten the drama and psychological suspense. The moody beach house setting enhances the tension, creating an engaging mystery that compels readers to unravel the web of lies surrounding the chilling events.
Set against the backdrop of the British Suffragette Movement, a group of determined women devises a bold plan to kidnap the prime minister. Amidst the drama and comedy, a young American woman finds herself entangled in their scheme, complicated further by a handsome stranger and an art theft. The narrative is rich with unexpected twists, blending intrigue with the fervent spirit of activism, creating a lively and clever tale that highlights the struggles for women's rights.
Focusing on the lives of Americans in Austria, the narrative explores the interconnected struggles of Harmony, a music student, and Peter, a doctor, amidst their personal challenges. As Harmony faces housing issues and the departure of friends, she finds a temporary home at the Schwarz Pension, where she meets Peter and Dr. Anna Gates. Their plans to share an apartment become complicated when Anna decides to return to America. The story blends romance with a poignant character study, highlighting the impact of choices on relationships in a foreign land.
The narrative centers around a doctor's tumultuous journey as he grapples with emerging dark secrets that challenge his mental stability. Love and deception intertwine, creating a suspenseful atmosphere that keeps readers on edge. As the plot unfolds, the protagonist must confront the consequences of his past actions, leading to a dramatic exploration of trust and betrayal.
Giallo
Il giallo economico classico - Ed. integrale
Die englische Originalausgabe von ›Der Klub zur weißen Katze‹ wurde 1910 veröffentlicht.
Ein Sarg für Dimitrios. Der Erbe von Latchetts. Der dünne Mann. Die Wendeltreppe. Kein Alibi. Rebecca
