The House in Lordship Lane

The House in Lordship Lane is a 1946 detective novel featuring Inspector Hanaud, set primarily in South London. The story begins when Julius Ricardo learns his friend Inspector Hanaud is coming to London, leading to an eventful journey across the English Channel. During the Channel crossing, Ricardo encounters an escaped prisoner named Bryan Devisher who holds a grudge against Daniel Horbury, a London MP involved in illegal activities. The plot centers on the subsequent murder of Horbury at his home in Lordship Lane, bringing together Inspector Hanaud, Ricardo, and Scotland Yard's Superintendent Maltby to solve the case. The investigation weaves through London society, involving figures like shipping magnate Septimus Crottle and Olivia Horbury, the victim's wife. The story incorporates elements of political intrigue, family dynamics, and personal vendettas. Mason's final Inspector Hanaud novel explores themes of justice, revenge, and the complex relationships between truth and deception in post-war British society.

Limited reader reviews exist online for this 1946 mystery novel. The book appears to have a small readership and lacks substantial discussion on major book platforms. What readers liked: - Plot twists keep readers guessing - Character development of Inspector Hanaud - Historical details of post-WWII London setting What readers disliked: - Slow pacing in middle sections - Complex plot threads that some found hard to follow Ratings: Goodreads: 3.67/5 (based on only 3 ratings) No reviews available on Amazon LibraryThing: No ratings or reviews The book seems to be one of Mason's lesser-known works, with far fewer reader reviews compared to his more popular novels like "The Four Feathers." Most available commentary comes from vintage book collectors and Mason enthusiasts rather than general readers. Note: Due to the scarcity of online reviews, this summary may not fully represent reader opinions.

The Red House Mystery by A. A. Milne A country house murder investigation follows amateur detective Anthony Gillingham as he unravels the death of a man in a locked room, featuring the same blend of British society and methodical detective work.

An Air That Kills by Margaret Millar The disappearance of a prominent local figure leads to an investigation that peels back layers of respectability in a small community, mirroring the social dynamics and dark secrets found in Lordship Lane.

The ABC Murders by Agatha Christie Inspector Hercule Poirot investigates a series of alphabetical murders across England, sharing Inspector Hanaud's methodical approach and attention to psychological details.

Death of a Peer by Ngaio Marsh Inspector Alleyn investigates the murder of a nobleman in London, featuring similar themes of politics, class relations, and post-war British society.

Smallbone Deceased by Michael Gilbert A body discovered in a deed box at a London legal firm launches an investigation into the professional classes, combining the political and social elements present in Mason's work.

🔍 Inspector Hanaud was one of the earliest fictional foreign detectives in English literature, predating even Hercule Poirot by several years. 📚 A.E.W. Mason had a fascinating double career as both a successful author and a British intelligence officer during World War I. 🏛️ Lordship Lane in East Dulwich has a rich history dating back to medieval times, when it was part of a major route used by cattle drivers heading to London markets. 🎭 Before becoming a novelist, Mason was a professional actor and brought his theatrical understanding of timing and dramatic tension to his mystery writing. 📖 The Inspector Hanaud series influenced many Golden Age detective writers, including Agatha Christie, who acknowledged Mason's work as an inspiration for her character Hercule Poirot.