"Black'erchief Dick" is set in the 17th century and tells the story of Richard "Dick" Brent, a notorious pirate. The novel is likely rich with adventure, historical details, and the romanticized view of piracy typical of early 20th-century literature. The title character, Dick, is a swashbuckling figure who navigates the treacherous waters of both the sea and his tumultuous life on land.Allingham's writing in this novel showcases her early talent for creating vivid characters and engaging ...

In "Dancers in Mourning," Margery Allingham crafts a mesmerizing whodunit that deftly blends the elements of a classic detective novel with a poignant exploration of the human condition. The narrative unfolds in the aftermath of a theatrical performance, where the enigmatic death of a celebrated dancer sends ripples through a vibrant troupe of artists. Allingham's precise and atmospheric prose adds layers to the story, inviting readers to delve into the intricacies of personal relationship...

In "The China Governess," Margery Allingham invites readers into the intricate world of her enduring detective, Albert Campion, as he navigates a labyrinth of intrigue and danger. Set against the textured backdrop of post-World War II England, the narrative unfolds with Campion being drawn into a case rife with familial secrets, betrayals, and a sinister plot involving Chinese artifacts. Allingham's elegant prose is marked by its sharp wit and keen psychological insight, reflecting the com...

In "Pearls Before Swine," Margery Allingham crafts a compelling detective narrative that entwines themes of crime, morality, and the exploration of human nature. Set against the backdrop of post-World War II England, this novel showcases Allingham's signature blend of suspense and wit, characterized by intricate plotting and vivid characterizations. The story follows the astute amateur sleuth Albert Campion as he navigates a web of deceit surrounding the mysterious disappearance of a prize...

"An ace high mystery, with unexpected situations and new methods used by old rogues" from the author of the Albert Campion series ( Kirkus Reviews).One of the Golden Age of Detective Fiction's Four Queens of Crime"Margery Allingham was one of the greatest mid-20th-century practitioners of the detective novel."—Alexander McCall SmithAn apparent suicide at a posh men's club in London doesn't fool Scotland Yard ...

A fast-paced mystery novel featuring intrigue, danger, and classic detective storytelling from the Golden Age of crime fiction.

Two classic mystery stories by a Golden Age Queen of Crime, the author of the Albert Campion series who "stands out like a shining light" (Agatha Christie)."Margery Allingham deserves to be rediscovered."—P. D. James, New York Times–bestselling author"Wanted: Someone Innocent"At a retirement reception for their headmistress, twenty-year-old Gillie Brayton is swept away by the wealthy Rita Fayre to work for he...

A classic from a Golden Age Queen of Crime. "One of the best books by a mystery novelist whose work is always of first rank." — The New York Times"Smooth reading and writing…a good 'un."— Kirkus Reviews (starred review)Something is afoot at the Ivory Gallery in London. A string of suspicious incidents—a Kang-Tse vase broken, a specially commissioned catalog burned, and now a painting slashed—has young Frances Ivory on edge. ...

World War II on the home front: "Fans of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society or James Herriot will enjoy this unique historical account." — Library JournalOne of the Golden Age of Detective Fiction's Four Queens of Crime"Engrossing and moving."— Kirkus Reviews (starred review)This remarkable firsthand account—from the acclaimed Golden Age mystery author—was written to let peopl...

Deadly Duo brings together two compact works of psychological crime fiction, "Wanted: Someone Innocent" and "Last Act," in which Margery Allingham turns from the puzzle mechanics of the classic detective story toward subtler studies of manipulation, fear, and moral vulnerability. Written with her characteristic elegance, irony, and sharp social observation, these novellas belong to the mid-century evolution of British crime writing, where atmosphere and character increasingly rival clue an...

The Crime at Black Dudley is Margery Allingham's 1929 entry into the Golden Age country-house mystery, yet it already unsettles the form with elements of Gothic melodrama and adventure-thriller suspense. A weekend party at the decaying Suffolk manor of Black Dudley turns sinister when an ancient dagger ritual precedes murder, entangling respectable guests with a ruthless criminal conspiracy. Allingham's prose is brisk, atmospheric, and slyly theatrical, and the novel is especially notable ...

The Beckoning Lady is one of Margery Allingham's later Albert Campion mysteries, a postwar country-house novel that turns the familiar Golden Age puzzle into a study of social atmosphere and moral residue. Set around a bohemian Suffolk gathering hosted by Minnie and Tonker Cassands, the book mingles fête-like comedy, eccentric domesticity, and sudden death. Allingham's prose is urbane, allusive, and quietly sinister, using wit and social observation to reveal how old loyalties, concealed c...