Ethel Lina White was a British crime writer celebrated for her ability to weave intricate suspense and psychological depth into her narratives. Her novels expertly blended elements of mystery with keen insights into human nature, earning her critical acclaim and a devoted readership. White's talent for crafting chilling atmospheres and unexpected twists solidified her place among the genre's prominent voices. She created compelling stories that continue to captivate with their originality and masterful plotting.
Revelling in the wickedness that lies beneath the idyllic veneer of village life, White’s 1932 mystery is an inventive interwar classic and remains one of the foundation stones of the village mystery sub-genre of crime fiction.
„Anna often had the impression of being imprisoned within a maze, five minutes before closing-time. Its windings were neither numerous nor complicated; but, if she lost her head and took a wrong turning in her haste, she might reach the outlet-only to find the door locked.“ The „maze“ is Soviet Russia, where Ann Brown (alias „Anna Stephanovitch“), a young English woman, lives quite happily for one summer. But then friends of her are arrested. Fear begins to spread. Terror reigns the country. Will Anna reach the „outlet“, before the „door is locked“?
Exploring the absurdities of life and death, the story follows Charlie Baxter, who, unexpectedly deceased, navigates the complexities of his own funeral preparations and the reactions of those around him. As he observes the outpouring of grief from his community and the challenges faced by his mourning widow, Charlie discovers the peculiar experience of being alive yet perceived as dead, leading to humorous and poignant moments that reflect on the nature of existence and the impact of loss.
Helen Capel takes the position of lady-help in a remote country house owned by the Warren family. She learns that a murderer is on the loose. All four of his victims were young girls, and the last of these was strangled in a lonely house just five miles away. Helen feels safe inside the house, protected, but the maniac is closer than she fears.
Ethel Lina White, a prominent crime writer of the 1930s and 1940s, is celebrated for her captivating short fiction, with "Cheese" being one of her standout tales. Her works, including renowned novels like "Some Must Watch" and "The Wheel Spins," reflect the rich tradition of Victorian crime and detective stories. This republished edition offers readers access to these classic narratives, preserving the original text and artwork while making them more accessible and affordable.
"First published 1936 by William Collins, Sons and Co. Ltd., under the title The Wheel Spins"--Title page verso.