He Who Whispers

When Miles Hammond is invited to a meeting of the Murder Club in London, he is met with two other guests and treated to a strange tale of an impossible crime in France from years before. The story comes home to Miles when he realizes that the librarian he has just hired for his home is Fay Seton, a woman whose name still echoes from the heart of this bizarre and unsolved murder of the past. First published in 1946, Carr considered this novel one of his finest works, showcasing his masterful author at the height of his powers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 10 August 2023
Publisher: British Library Publishing

When Miles Hammond receives an invitation to attend a meeting of the esteemed Murder Club in London, he is surprised to find only two other guests present. However, what follows is a peculiar and intriguing tale that takes him back to a mysterious crime that occurred in France years ago. The story revolves around the murder of a man on a tower with only one staircase, under the watchful eye of an eyewitness at the time of the crime. The atmosphere is filled with speculation about levitating vampires, and as Miles delves deeper into the investigation, he realizes that the librarian he has recently hired for his home is none other than Fay Seton, a woman whose name still carries a haunting resonance in the memory of this bizarre and unsolved murder from the past.

Published in 1946, this novel has since been regarded as one of Carr's finest works. It showcases the author at the peak of his artistic prowess, presenting a meticulously crafted plot that unfolds at an astonishing pace and features memorable characters, including the legendary detective, Dr. Gideon Fell.

The novel opens with Miles Hammond, a renowned author, receiving an invitation to the Murder Club in London. Upon his arrival, he is greeted by only two other guests, setting the stage for a mysterious and suspenseful encounter. The meeting begins with a strange tale being narrated by one of the guests, who describes the murder of a man on a tower in France. The tower had only one staircase, and the murder took place while the victim was under surveillance.

The story takes a peculiar turn when the narrator mentions the theories of levitating vampires that were prevalent at the time of the murder. This revelation hits close to home for Miles, as he realizes that the librarian he has recently hired for his home is none other than Fay Seton. Fay's name carries a heavy significance in the context of the murder, as it was associated with the victim and the investigation that followed.

Miles becomes increasingly intrigued by Fay's presence and begins to investigate her background. He discovers that Fay is a mysterious and enigmatic woman with a past that is shrouded in mystery. She has a reputation for being a skilled librarian, but there are whispers that she has a connection to the supernatural and may be involved in the murder that has captivated the Murder Club.

As Miles delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a web of secrets and lies that connect Fay to the murder. He discovers that Fay was the eyewitness to the crime and may have had a motive for committing it. However, as he digs deeper, he realizes that there are many other factors at play, and the truth is far more complex than he could have imagined.

The novel is filled with suspense, mystery, and intrigue, as Miles navigates through a labyrinth of clues and suspects. The characters are well-developed and captivating, with each having their own secrets and motivations. Dr. Gideon Fell, in particular, is a standout character, with his sharp mind and deductive abilities playing a crucial role in the investigation.

The novel's pacing is masterful, with each chapter building on the previous one to create a sense of urgency and anticipation. The plot is carefully crafted, with every detail contributing to the overall mystery. The reader is kept guessing until the very end, when the truth is finally revealed.

In conclusion, "The Murder Club" is a classic detective novel that showcases the brilliance of its author, Raymond Chandler. The novel's intricate plot, memorable characters, and atmospheric setting make it a timeless masterpiece that has captivated readers for generations. Whether you are a fan of detective fiction or simply seeking a thrilling and engaging read, this novel is sure to exceed your expectations.

Weight: 252g
Dimension: 130 x 190 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780712354684