Bodies from the Library 4

The fourth volume in the series "Bodies from the Library" brings together rare stories of crime and suspense from the Golden Age of Detective Fiction, including a short novel by Christianna Brand. The anthology includes three never-before-published mysteries by Edmund Crispin, Ngaio Marsh, and Leo Bruce, two pieces written for radio by Gladys Mitchell and H. C. Bailey, and a newly unearthed short story by Ethel Lina White that inspired Hitchcock's "The Lady Vanishes".

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2022
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Mystery stories have been a captivating genre for centuries, offering a wide range of intriguing tales. From the classic whodunit to the more complex whydunit and howdunit, these stories have captivated readers with their intricate plots and suspenseful twists. One particularly fascinating aspect of mystery stories is the variety of subgenres they encompass. There are locked-room puzzles, detective stories without detectives, and crimes with a limited choice of suspects, each requiring a unique approach to solve the puzzle.

Over the years, countless volumes of mystery stories have been published, each offering a unique perspective and style. However, some of these stories remain elusive, hidden away in newspapers, magazines, or out-of-print anthologies. These include ephemeral works such as plays that have not been aired, staged, or screened for decades, as well as unpublished stories that were absorbed into an author's archive upon their death.

Fortunately, there are now efforts to bring these forgotten treasures to light. The fourth volume in the series, Bodies from the Library, is a testament to this endeavor. This annual anthology of rare stories of crime and suspense brings together tales from the Golden Age of Detective Fiction for the first time in book form. The collection includes three never-before-published mysteries by Edmund Crispin, Ngaio Marsh, and Leo Bruce, as well as two pieces written for radio by Gladys Mitchell and H. C. Bailey.

In addition to these exciting new discoveries, the anthology also features a newly unearthed short story by Ethel Lina White that inspired Hitchcock's classic film, The Lady Vanishes. This diverse mix of tales by some of the world's most popular classic crime writers contains something for everyone. Whether you are a seasoned mystery fan or a newcomer to the genre, Bodies from the Library is a must-read.

The fourth volume in the series also includes indispensable biographies by Tony Medawar of all the featured authors. These biographies provide valuable insight into the lives and careers of these talented writers, shedding light on their influences and inspirations. By bringing these forgotten stories to the forefront, Bodies from the Library continues to celebrate the rich legacy of classic crime writing.

In conclusion, mystery stories have a timeless appeal that continues to captivate readers of all ages. From the classic whodunit to the more complex whydunit and howdunit, these stories offer a unique and exciting way to explore the depths of human nature and the intricacies of the human mind. The fourth volume in the series, Bodies from the Library, is a testament to the enduring power of these tales and the importance of preserving the legacy of classic crime writing.

Weight: 274g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008381004