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First published in 1929, now public domain in the US and Canada, this was the first in a series of seven novels featuring the character of Chief Inspector Poole, published during the Golden Age of Detective Fiction. It is notable for its portrayal of a German Jewish character, a banker who seeks revenge and wants to murder someone for his mistreatment. It was well-received by critics and sold well. The Observer wrote "It would be difficult to overpraise it." After banker Sir Garth Fratten is show more found dead near a London landmark, Poole of Scotland Yard leads the investigation. The victim has died apparently without human intervention. show lessTags
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Member Reviews
Inspector Poole is asked to look into the apparently natural death of a banker, and soon discovers he was murdered. The characterization in this 1929 novel was deeper than is often the case in that period, and I thought the first half was excellent. After that it got a bit complex and unbelievable - lots of people carrying make up around to disguise themselves for example.
SPOILER
I also found the idea that Inez would get together with her half-brother after he is told they are in fact not related by blood (she has known all along) a bit disturbing.
SPOILER
I also found the idea that Inez would get together with her half-brother after he is told they are in fact not related by blood (she has known all along) a bit disturbing.
The Duke of York’s “Steps are a location in London between Waterloo Place and the Mall and St. James Park. It is a common route for financier Sir Garth Fratten on his way home. It becomes his last walk, one evening, in the company of an old and close friend.
Was it a heart attack? He had a recent diagnosis of heart trouble and had been advised to take it easy. There seems to be something a bit off about the incident, suggesting possible murder.
If it was murder, there were plenty of possible suspects. His daughter or step-son, his friend, Leopold Hessel, a friend from his military years or maybe a member of the board of directors of a company he was looking into investing in. Each could have a reason and each have a past they don’t show more wish known.
Taking place in 1929, after the “Great Way,” the war is still casting its shadow on life. Could espionage be a factor, and if so who and why?
An enjoyable read and a step back in time. show less
Was it a heart attack? He had a recent diagnosis of heart trouble and had been advised to take it easy. There seems to be something a bit off about the incident, suggesting possible murder.
If it was murder, there were plenty of possible suspects. His daughter or step-son, his friend, Leopold Hessel, a friend from his military years or maybe a member of the board of directors of a company he was looking into investing in. Each could have a reason and each have a past they don’t show more wish known.
Taking place in 1929, after the “Great Way,” the war is still casting its shadow on life. Could espionage be a factor, and if so who and why?
An enjoyable read and a step back in time. show less
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Author Information
23+ Works 560 Members
1 Work 56 Members
Series
Common Knowledge
- Original publication date
- 1929
- People/Characters
- Inspector John Poole
Classifications
Statistics
- Members
- 56
- Popularity
- 548,268
- Reviews
- 2
- Rating
- (3.60)
- Languages
- English, German, Italian
- Media
- Paper, Ebook
- ISBNs
- 6
- ASINs
- 4
