Originally written in 1907, The Red Thumb Mark opens the series by R. Austin Freeman featuring Dr. Thorndyke, who is a sort of Sherlock-Holmes type character without the neuroses. Thorndyke is both a doctor and a lawyer, as well as a scientist. He has a butler/assistant named Polton and a friend who also serves as an assistant and confidant, Jervis, who provides the brief bit of romance in the novel (not overdone...very prim and proper, always the proper gentleman).

The Red Thumb Mark opens with a crime. A young man, nephew of a diamond broker, is accused of stealing a quantity of diamonds from his uncle's safe. According to all, this act is totally out of character for the man (Reuben Hornby), who also has an income of his own so is by no means a poor relation. Of course, Reuben declares his innocence; however, the evidence reveals Reuben's thumbprint very clearly on the safe perfectly encased in a drop of blood. If Reuben didn't do it, then why is his thumbprint there? How's he going to get out of this predicament??? Dr. Thorndyke to the rescue...as he attempts to clear Reuben's good name. But there are those who do not wish him to succeed....

I'll stop there in case there is anyone else here that may be remotely interested in reading this book. I like these old mysteries, and I love the House of Stratus reprints editions. If you are into these classic-style mysteries, you may wish to give this one a try. If you want mainstream, you won't be happy. It's a thinking person's type of mystery. ( )