R. Austin Freeman's The D'Arblay Mystery is a locked-room puzzle with a clever twist on the usual detective story formula. It first invites you into the investigation, then shows you how a true expert solves it.

The Story

Artist John D'Arblay is found dead in his locked studio from a gunshot wound. The police quickly call it suicide. His fiancée, Juliet Gibson, refuses to believe it. The situation is strange: D'Arblay was wealthy, successful, and about to be married. Why would he kill himself? As Juliet and D'Arblay's friend, Mr. Maddison, start asking questions, they uncover a web of potential motives. There's a mysterious relative with a claim to the family fortune, shady business dealings, and odd behavior from several people close to the victim. The official investigation hits a wall. That's when they bring in Dr. John Thorndyke, a forensic specialist who approaches crime like a scientific experiment.

Why You Should Read It

This book is a masterclass in the 'inverted detective story.' Freeman shows you the crime and the initial, flawed investigation first. You see all the evidence the police see. You might even form your own theory. Then, Thorndyke arrives and demonstrates how a meticulous, scientific mind works. He doesn't rely on hunches or dramatic confessions. He uses chemistry, microscopy, and pure logic. Watching him take a piece of overlooked evidence—a paint smear, a grain of sand, a mark on a bullet—and build an unshakeable case from it is incredibly satisfying. It makes you feel smart as a reader. The pleasure isn't in a shocking 'aha!' moment you could never predict, but in following the logical steps to a conclusion that now seems obvious.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for mystery lovers who enjoy cerebral puzzles over action-packed thrillers. If you like the idea of Sherlock Holmes but wish his methods were explained with more real-world science, Dr. Thorndyke is your man. It's also a great pick for anyone tired of predictable plots, as Freeman's structure keeps things fresh. The writing is clear and the pace is steady, making it a comfortable but engaging read. Just be ready to pay attention—the devil, and the solution, are in the details.