The Mysterious Mr. Badman: A Yorkshire Bibliomystery

Athelstan Digby agrees to look after his nephew's bookshop while his hosts are away, and when a copy of "The Life and Death of Mr. Badman" is stolen, he and his nephew are embroiled in a case of ruthless murder. This rare and fast-paced bibliomystery is long overdue its return to print.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2022
Publisher: British Library Publishing

While on holiday in Keldstone, Athelstan Digby, a blanket manufacturer, agrees to look after his nephew, Jim's, old bookshop on the ground floor of his lodgings while his hosts are away. On the first day of his tenure, a vicar, a chauffeur, and an out-of-town stranger inquire after The Life and Death of Mr. Badman by John Bunyan. A copy of the book mysteriously arrives at the shop in a bundle of books brought in by a young scamp and is subsequently stolen. Digby and his nephew, Jim, move to investigate the significance of the book, and they soon find themselves embroiled in a case in which the stakes have risen from antiquarian book-pinching to ruthless murder.

First published in a limited run in 1934, this exceedingly rare and fast-paced bibliomystery set against the landscapes of Yorkshire is long overdue its return to print. The book follows the adventures of Athelstan Digby and his nephew, Jim, as they navigate the treacherous world of book collecting and uncover a plot to murder a famous author. Along the way, they encounter a cast of eccentric characters, including a mysterious bookseller, a rival collector, and a group of criminals who are after a rare copy of Mr. Badman's book.

The book is filled with suspense, mystery, and intrigue, and it is sure to captivate readers who are interested in the world of rare books and the darker side of human nature. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the plot is paced so well that readers will be eagerly turning the pages until the very end.

In conclusion, The Life and Death of Mr. Badman is a must-read for anyone who loves books, mysteries, and the thrill of the chase. It is a rare and exciting blend of literature and adventure that is sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.

Weight: 206g
Dimension: 131 x 190 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780712354370