The Red Lacquer Case by Patricia Wentworth

The Red Lacquer Case by Patricia Wentworth

There was a hand pressed against the window, a large hand that looked unnaturally white, the blood driven from it by the pressure of a man's weight. The light showed the pale fingers-and the still paler palm crossed by a dark, jagged scar.

Young Sally Meredith is distracted from her jam recipes by a visit from uncle Fritzi, who is accompanied by a mysterious red lacquer case containing a deadly secret. A band of unscrupulous international agents are close behind, and when the eccentric uncle disappears into the night the lacquer case is stolen. But Sally is now the only person who knows how to open the case - she is kidnapped, her life in terrible danger.

Meanwhile Bill Armitage, formerly Sally's fiance and still in love with her, begins with the aid of Scotland Yard to search for her. The ending of this clever detective story is, unexpected and piquantly, in high contrast to the preceding terrors.

The Red Lacquer Case was originally published in 1924. This new edition features an introduction by crime fiction historian Curtis Evans.

When I pick up a book by Patricia Wentworth I think, now to enjoy myself-and I always do. Mary Dell, Daily Mirror

Patricia Wentworth (1878-1961) was a master of the traditional English mystery novel. Dora Amy Elles was born in India, and following the loss of her first husband, she began writing, publishing her first novel in 1910. Miss Maud Silver, the former governess whose heavy figure, liking for Tennyson, and enthusiasm for knitting served to mask a bright brain, was introduced in the 1920s and became her most famous character. Miss Silver is the definitive representation of the English style of cozy mysteries, alongside Agatha Christie's Miss Marple.