This author gained renown for his detective novels, often set within the realm of forensic science and featuring the character of Dr. Thorndyke. His writing is distinguished by its meticulous incorporation of genuine, though often arcane, scientific knowledge from fields such as tropical medicine, metallurgy, and toxicology. He drew upon his early experiences as a colonial surgeon to enrich his narratives and is credited with inventing the "inverted detective story," where the crime is revealed at the outset, and the subsequent plot focuses on the detective's efforts to unravel the mystery.
Dr. John Thorndyke, a forensic expert and detective, finds himself embroiled in the perplexing case of the missing D'Arblay Jewel, a valuable French manuscript. As he investigates its mysterious disappearance, Thorndyke employs his medical knowledge and deductive reasoning to untangle the web of intrigue. R. Austin Freeman, a pioneer of scientific detective fiction, crafts a compelling narrative that blends forensic science with a captivating plot, showcasing his talent for creating intricate puzzles and solidifying his influence in the Golden Age of Detective Fiction.
The book features Dr. Thorndyke, a medico-legal forensic investigator created by Richard Austin Freeman, who is known for pioneering the inverted detective story format. In these narratives, the crime and perpetrator are revealed at the outset, focusing instead on the detective's unraveling of the mystery. Freeman draws on his experiences as a colonial surgeon, weaving in authentic scientific knowledge from fields like tropical medicine, metallurgy, and toxicology, enriching the plots with genuine forensic details.
Volume VII contains the thirteenth, fourteenth, and fifteenth Thorndyke novels, published in 1931, 1932, and 1933, respectively.Pontifex, Son, and Thorndyke - Jasper Gray is an enterprising fellow going about his typical day when he's drawn into a series of curious events. Meanwhile, Thorndyke is consulted on a seemingly unrelated but unusual suicide. When their stories collide, Jasper's life will never be the same.When Rogues Fall Out - A disagreement between thieves and a policeman doing his duty leads to the policeman's death. Thorndyke, Jervis, and Polton assist the official force to bring the killer to justice - and along the way investigate a most mysterious house . . . .Dr. Thorndyke Intervenes - An old case has current consequences when a human head is abandoned in a train station. Before the investigation is concluded, a visit to an ancient crypt and explorations in ancient British mines will lead to a restored inheritance.When Sherlock Holmes began his practice as a "Consulting Detective", his ideas of scientific criminal investigations caused the London police to look upon him as a mere "theorist". And yet, through his work, the science behind catching criminals became so important that it's hard to now imagine the world without them.Many famous Great Detectives followed in Holmes's footsteps - Nero Wolfe and Ellery Queen, Hercule Poirot and Solar Pons - but before they began their careers, and while Holmes was still in practice in Baker Street, another London consultant - Dr. John Thorndyke - opened his doors, using the scientific methods developed and perfected by Holmes and taking them to a whole new level of brilliance.Between 1905, with his first appearance in a nearly forgotten novella (see below), to 1942, and through the course of twenty-one novels and over forty short stories, Dr. Thorndyke, often with the assistance of his friend Dr. Christopher Jervis, unraveled some incredibly complex puzzles. Besides providing very satisfying mysteries - some of which turned the literary form inside out - these adventures present vivid pictures of England in the late Victorian and early Edwardian eras, ranging from the doctor's own vividly drawn chambers at 5A Kings Bench Walk in the Temple to the surrounding London streets, and beyond into the villages and towns of the countryside.Many of the Thorndyke volumes have been difficult to obtain for decades. MX Publishing is proud to announce the return of Dr. Thorndyke in a collection of omnibus editions, bringing these masterful adventures of one of the world's greatest detectives together in an easily available format for modern readers."Thorndyke will cheerfully show you all the facts. You will be none the wiser . . . ." - Dorothy L. Sayers, Chronicler of Lord Peter Wimsey
Set in the early 20th century, this novel introduces Dr. Thorndyke, a pioneering forensics expert, as he navigates a case involving a stolen shipment of diamonds. A young man faces trial, and as evidence mounts, Dr. Thorndyke steps in to aid the defense. While the plot twists may be predictable and the dialogue reflects the era's class distinctions, the writing remains engaging. The blend of forensic science, an unobtrusive love story, and relatable characters like Dr. Thorndyke and Dr. Jervis contribute to the novel's lasting appeal.
The story centers on John Bellingham, a celebrated archaeologist who vanishes after a significant expedition to Egypt. His disappearance is shrouded in mystery, with misleading clues that baffle those searching for him. The narrative intensifies when Dr. Thorndyke, known for his keen insight, steps in to unravel the enigma. The quest involves tracking down Bellingham, who is marked with the Eye of Osiris, adding a layer of intrigue to this compelling tale of adventure and discovery.
The book features Dr. Thorndyke, a medico-legal forensic investigator created by Richard Austin Freeman, who is known for pioneering the inverted detective story format. In this unique narrative style, the crime and its perpetrator are revealed at the outset, shifting the focus to the detective's investigative process. Drawing from his experiences as a colonial surgeon, Freeman weaves in authentic scientific knowledge across various fields, including tropical medicine and toxicology, enriching the detective tales with intriguing details.
Set in one of Chancery's last surviving inns, the story unfolds with the mysterious death of Jeffrey Blackmore, prompting an inquest led by Mr. Thorndyke. The narrative intricately weaves themes of opium and morphine poisoning, illustrated through a patient's extreme symptoms. A tracking chart, inspired by the author's own experiences in Ashanti, adds a unique element to the investigation. As Mr. Marchmont recounts his observations of Blackmore's death scene, the plot thickens, revealing secrets tied to the inn's storied past.
