3.83
Part of "Perry Mason" series
"The Case of the Velvet Claws" by Erle Stanley Gardner is a riveting legal thriller that introduces the world to the unforgettable character of Perry Mason. Published in 1933, this novel is a classic example of the hard-boiled detective genre, with a twist of courtroom drama that Gardner would become famous for. The story begins with a mysterious woman, Velvet Claws, who approaches Mason with a case that seems too good to be true. She wants him to handle a divorce case for her wealthy husband, but things take a dark turn when the husband is found dead, and Velvet Claws is accused of his murder. Mason, a skilled defense attorney, takes on the case and embarks on a dangerous journey to uncover the truth. Gardner's writing style is crisp and concise, with a fast-paced plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The characters are well-developed, with Mason's cunning and determination making him a compelling protagonist. The novel also explores themes of power, corruption, and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets. "The Case of the Velvet Claws" is a must-read for fans of legal thrillers and detective fiction. It offers a fascinating look at the early days of Perry Mason's career and showcases Gardner's talent for crafting suspenseful and engaging stories. The novel's twists and turns will keep readers guessing until the very end, making it a classic example of the genre that continues to captivate audiences today.
Rex Stout
Fer-de-Lance
Fans of Erle Stanley Gardner's Perry Mason series might enjoy 'Fer-de-Lance' by Rex Stout. Published in 1934, this novel introduces the world to Stout's famous detective, Nero Wolfe, and his assistant Archie Goodwin. In this story, Wolfe is hired to investigate the murder of a college president, and his unique methods and keen intellect make for a compelling read.
Learn MoreRaymond Chandler
The Big Sleep
If you're looking for a gritty, hard-boiled detective novel, 'The Big Sleep' by Raymond Chandler is a great choice. Published in 1939, this novel features private detective Philip Marlowe, who is hired to investigate a blackmail case but soon finds himself embroiled in a larger web of crime and corruption.
Learn MoreJosephine Tey
The Daughter of Time
If you enjoyed 'The Case of the Velvet Claws' for its historical detail and intricate plot, you might like 'The Daughter of Time' by Josephine Tey. This 1951 novel features detective Alan Grant, who becomes fascinated by the historical mystery surrounding the fate of the Princes in the Tower during the reign of Richard III.
Learn MoreDashiell Hammett
The Thin Man
Fans of witty banter and fast-paced action might enjoy 'The Thin Man' by Dashiell Hammett. Published in 1934, this novel features retired detective Nick Charles and his socialite wife Nora, who become embroiled in a murder investigation involving an eccentric inventor and his dysfunctional family.
Learn MoreAgatha Christie
Murder on the Orient Express
If you're looking for a classic murder mystery with a clever plot and a memorable cast of characters, 'Murder on the Orient Express' by Agatha Christie is a great choice. Published in 1934, this novel features detective Hercule Poirot, who must solve a murder that occurs on a luxurious train traveling through Europe.
Learn MoreDashiell Hammett
The Maltese Falcon
If you enjoyed 'The Case of the Velvet Claws' for its tough-guy dialogue and atmospheric setting, you might like 'The Maltese Falcon' by Dashiell Hammett. Published in 1930, this novel features private detective Sam Spade, who becomes embroiled in a dangerous search for a valuable statue and the people who will stop at nothing to possess it.
Learn MoreDashiell Hammett
Red Harvest
For fans of hard-boiled detective fiction and gritty, violent action, 'Red Harvest' by Dashiell Hammett is a must-read. Published in 1929, this novel features the Continental Op, a detective who is hired to clean up a corrupt town but soon finds himself in the middle of a gang war.
Learn MoreSir Arthur Conan Doyle
The Hound of the Baskervilles
If you're a fan of classic detective fiction and enjoy a good supernatural twist, 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle is a great choice. Published in 1902, this novel features the iconic detective Sherlock Holmes, who is called in to investigate a series of mysterious events on the moors of Devonshire.
Learn MoreRex Stout
The League of Frightened Men
If you enjoyed 'The Case of the Velvet Claws' for its intricate plot and clever twists, you might like 'The League of Frightened Men' by Rex Stout. Published in 1935, this novel features detective Nero Wolfe, who is hired to investigate a series of bizarre accidents that seem to be targeting a group of college friends.
Learn MoreAgatha Christie
Death on the Nile
If you're looking for a classic murder mystery set in an exotic location, 'Death on the Nile' by Agatha Christie is a great choice. Published in 1937, this novel features detective Hercule Poirot, who is on a luxury cruise down the Nile when a wealthy heiress is murdered in her cabin.
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