Cat's Paw

More about the book

Martin Greenough’s mansion is the last holdout in Boston's Fenway parkland, a testament to his wealth as an elderly bachelor. Childless and nearing the end of his life, he lives with only his cat, servants, and friend Mrs. Warden, while ruling over a circle of family members who seem more interested in his money than his character. On the eve of his birthday, Greenough summons his heirs for an important discussion, but before he can speak, he is murdered in his study. With nearly everyone present having a motive and none appearing particularly upset, Inspector Kane of the Boston PD faces a challenging investigation. As he delves into the tangled family dynamics and uncovers dark secrets, a bizarre clue emerges that could be pivotal in solving the case. This classical “closed circle” mystery features a vibrant cast of characters and exemplifies the house-bound tales for which Roger Scarlett is known. It promises to engage fans of Golden Age detective stories, particularly those who appreciate architecturally-focused plots. Discussion guide questions for book clubs are included.