Top 10 John Dickson Carr Books
Unlock the captivating world of John Dickson Carr’s thrilling novels with this curated book roundup. From gripping mystery to spellbinding suspense, Carr’s works have left an indelible mark on the literary landscape. Gathering a selection of his most popular titles, we delve into the secrets and surprises that each book brings to the table, offering readers an irresistible journey through Carr’s intriguing literary universe.
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1. John Dickson Carr
A Critical Study
Discover the masterful mind behind the “locked-room” mystery and “impossible crime” phenomenon in John Dickson Carr: A Critical Study by S. T.
Joshi. This comprehensive guide delves into Carr’s entire body of work, including short stories, radio plays, essays, introductions, and book reviews, while focusing on his three most renowned detectives: Henri Bencolin, Dr.
Gideon Fell, and Sir Henry Merrivale. With 222 pages, this in-depth exploration is a must-read for fans of Carr and the detective genre. Available in printed format from publisher Popular Press, this enlightening book has not yet been rated by customers, offering readers the opportunity to rate and share their experience, making this an exciting and intriguing addition to the detective and mystery plays, American category.
- Authors: S. T. Joshi
- Publisher: Popular Press
- Published Date: April 08, 1990
- Page Count: 222
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Detective and mystery plays, American
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
2. The John Dickson Carr Omnibus
Step into the thrilling world of Dr. Gideon Fell with the John Dickson Carr Omnibus! This remarkable volume gathers three masterful detective novels, showcasing the wit and brilliance of the enigmatic Dr. Fell in solving the most perplexing mysteries.
In “The Mad Hatter Mystery, “ our intrepid sleuth uncovers a chilling murder when he stumbles upon a corpse wearing a top hat with a crossbow bolt lodged in its heart. Little does he know, the entire case revolves around a seemingly ordinary fashion accessory.
For fans of the genre or newcomers, the John Dickson Carr Omnibus is the perfect introduction to the world of Dr. Gideon Fell and John Dickson Carr’s captivating storytelling prowess. With 728 pages packed with suspense, twists, and turns, this is one mystery lovers won’t want to miss. Dive into the enchanting realm of Dr. Fell’s deductive genius and let the suspense enthrall you from start to finish. Join Dr. Gideon Fell on his thrilling adventures and unravel the secrets that hide within the most unexpected places.
- Authors: John Dickson Carr
- Published Date: April 08, 2000
- Page Count: 728
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Detective and mystery stories, American
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
3. The Man Who Could Not Shudder
In “The Man Who Could Not Shudder, “ renowned author John Dickson Carr unravels a mind-bending mystery that will leave you questioning the boundaries of reality. At Martin Clarke’s weekend party, three guests claim to have witnessed the impossible — the disappearance of a pistol, the murder of a guest, and the impossibility of human hands ever touching the weapon. As the guests grapple with this confounding event, Dr. Gideon Fell steps in to help unravel the enigma.
As the story progresses, the killer continues to elude Fell, creating an atmosphere of tension and suspense. Fell, determined to bring the murderer to justice, eventually devises a plan — one that pushes the boundaries of logic and reason. With only 222 pages, this short yet captivating novel is sure to challenge your intellect and transport you to a world where the impossible is made possible. Don’t miss your chance to join Dr. Fell as he uncovers the truth in “The Man Who Could Not Shudder. “
- Authors: John Dickson Carr
- Publisher: Murder Room
- Published Date: November 19, 2012
- Page Count: 222
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
4. The Four False Weapons
Introducing M. Bencolin, the illustrious French sleuth, now enjoying a relaxing retirement from his crime-fighting days. However, the serenity of his newfound leisure is shattered as a heinous murder case unfolds on a scorching Parisian night.
The unfortunate victim, Rose Klonec, is connected to multiple individuals across the city. Intriguingly, four distinct weapons, potentially implicated in the crime, have been discovered within the hidden villa where her lifeless body lies. As the investigation deepens, so does the expanding list of potential suspects, each having their own motive and their own deadly weapon.
Embark on a riveting journey with M. Bencolin as he delves into the tangled web of Parisian high society, where deception lurks around every corner. In John Dickson Carr’s “The Four False Weapons,” every secret could lead you closer to the killer. This exhilarating mystery novel is brimming with unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers enthralled from beginning to end. Don’t pass up the opportunity to join this thrilling adventure!
- Authors: John Dickson Carr
- Publisher: Murder Room
- Published Date: November 19, 2012
- Page Count: 222
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
5. The Bride of Newgate
In John Dickson Carr’s “The Bride of Newgate, “ Golden Age mystery meets historical intrigue against the backdrop of Regency-era England. Follow the unforgettable story of Miss Caroline Ross, a young woman whose desperate attempts to evade marriage lead her to choose a dangerous path.
In order to secure her family fortune, Caroline selects a doomed lover, a convicted murderer soon to face the hangman’s noose. Little does she know that her deception will lead her down a treacherous path, risking her life and facing a life sentence that far surpasses the horrors of Newgate jail. With its thrilling plot, masterful storytelling, and atmospheric settings, “The Bride of Newgate” will captivate readers as it delves into the heart of a mysterious and intriguing past.
- Authors: John Dickson Carr
- Publisher: Open Road Media
- Published Date: March 25, 2014
- Page Count: 380
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
6. Most Secret
In the golden age of British-style whodunits, master storyteller John Dickson Carr delivers a dazzling historical mystery that takes readers on an exhilarating ride through Restoration London. As the Civil War ends and the monarchy recovers, young Roderick Kinsmere, a country boy with ambition, finds himself embroiled in a web of danger, court intrigue, piracy, and swashbuckling romance. With the future of the kingdom resting on his shoulders, Roderick must learn fast and navigate treacherous waters, all while trying to unravel the secrets surrounding the beautiful sapphire ring he inherited from his father.
A thrilling tale of adventure, intrigue, and heart-stopping suspense, Most Secret is a captivating escape for fans of historical fiction and classic whodunits alike.
- Authors: John Dickson Carr
- Publisher: Open Road Media
- Published Date: March 25, 2014
- Page Count: 329
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
7. The Case of the Constant Suicides
A Gideon Fell Mystery
In “The Case of the Constant Suicides” by master mystery author John Dickson Carr, readers are drawn into a riveting locked-room mystery set against the backdrop of the Scottish Highlands. When old Angus Campbell, recently bankrupt, tragically plummets to his death from a locked room in Shira Castle, all eyes turn to the enigmatic Dr.
Gideon Fell for answers. Suspicion abounds, as Fell navigates a colorful cast of characters and unravels the intricate web of secrets and lies surrounding the shocking series of suicides. Prepare to immerse yourself in a suspenseful and thrilling tale of detection, love, and murder as you join Dr.
Fell in his quest for the truth.
- Authors: John Dickson Carr
- Publisher: Birlinn Ltd
- Published Date: June 14, 2018
- Page Count: 208
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
8. The Crooked Hinge
The Crooked Hinge is a suspenseful mystery novel penned by the exceptional John Dickson Carr. The plot commences with Sir John Farnleigh, a wayward family member, returning to assert his inheritance after a quarter of a century. However, his intentions are thwarted by the emergence of another Sir John, who also lays claim to the estate’s ownership. Before the inheritance feud can be resolved, one of the men meets an untimely demise.
Dr. Gideon Fell, an eminent authority, encounters this baffling predicament while visiting the surrounding village. To unravel this complex enigma, Fell ventures into the enigmatic realms of the supernatural, black arts, and occult practices. A spine-chilling, eerie inquiry unfolds, inspired by a genuine historical incident.
The Crooked Hinge has been chosen by a distinguished panel of twelve mystery aficionados as one of the top ten locked-room mysteries of all time. Boasting a mesmerizing concoction of suspense and intrigue, this ninth installment in the Dr. Gideon Fell series is a thrilling brainteaser and a testament to Carr’s narrative dexterity.
- Authors: John Dickson Carr
- Publisher: National Geographic Books
- Published Date: October 01, 2019
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
9. It Walks by Night
A Paris Mystery
Step into the thrilling world of Parisian crime, as you uncover the untold mysteries of the British Library’s archives. In the golden age of detective fiction, John Dickson Carr brings us his first novel, It Walks by Night: A Paris Mystery. In this chilling tale of intrigue, we are introduced to Inspector Bencolin and a locked room mystery, surrounded by the smoke-wreathed gloom of a Parisian salon.
With new love on the horizon, Inspector Bencolin must race against time to solve the dumbfounding case of a beheaded body found in a locked room, with no apparent exit. Join us in this dark and suspenseful journey, where Bencolin sets off into the Parisian night to uncover the truth and bring the killer to justice. This exclusive British Library crime classic also includes the short story, “The Shadow of the Goat, “ as a bonus treat for thriller lovers.
Don’t miss your chance to uncover the captivating treasures of It Walks by Night!
- Authors: John Dickson Carr
- Publisher: Sourcebooks, Inc.
- Published Date: March 03, 2020
- Page Count: 193
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
10. Under Lock & Skeleton Key
A Secret Staircase Mystery
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Under Lock & Skeleton Key, a captivating mystery novel by Gigi Pandian, winner of multiple awards for her enchanting narrative style. This spellbinding tale, marked as a Lefty Nominee for Best Mystery Novel, masterfully combines stunning architecture with savory food in a love letter to classic locked-room mysteries.
The book’s protagonist, Tempest Raj, is forced to confront her destiny when her career crumbles, leaving her no choice but to work for her father’s Secret Staircase Construction. The company turns ordinary homes into magical spaces by creating hidden rooms, intricate locks, and other architectural marvels.
The thrilling storyline is set in motion when Tempest is called to a home renovation project by her father, only to find a shocking discovery — her former stage double is found dead inside a wall that, according to the records, was sealed centuries ago. Suspecting she was the intended victim, Tempest is left with no choice but to unravel this perplexing crime.
As she delves deeper into the mystery, Tempest grapples with the possibility that the Raj family curse, something she once deemed a mere myth, might have claimed her as its latest victim. Brace yourself for a wildly entertaining rollercoaster of suspense, enigma, and family secrets that will leave you spellbound.
- Authors: Gigi Pandian
- Publisher: Minotaur Books
- Published Date: March 15, 2022
- Page Count: 258
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
