BOOK BRIEF

The Crime at Black Dudley

Margery Allingham
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The Crime at Black Dudley

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1973

Book Brief

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Margery Allingham

The Crime at Black Dudley

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1973
Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1920s

Publication Year

1973

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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Super Short Summary

In The Crime at Black Dudley, a group of guests at a secluded English manor become embroiled in a mysterious murder during a weekend party. As tensions rise and secrets are uncovered, Albert Campion, a seemingly frivolous guest, helps to unravel the truth. The story unfolds with twists, introducing readers to the charming and enigmatic detective.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Dark

Unnerving

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

3.8

12,090 ratings

59%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Margery Allingham's The Crime at Black Dudley is praised for its engaging plot and introduction of the charismatic Albert Campion. Positive aspects include witty dialogue and a compelling gothic setting. However, some critics note that the story feels dated and lacks depth in character development. Overall, it's an intriguing start to the Campion series, offering classic mystery charm.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Crime at Black Dudley?

Fans of Agatha Christie and Dorothy L. Sayers will enjoy The Crime at Black Dudley by Margery Allingham. This classic British mystery appeals to readers who appreciate intricate plots, eccentric characters, and a mix of suspense and wit akin to found in Allingham's Albert Campion series debut.

3.8

12,090 ratings

59%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

The Crime at Black Dudley marks the debut of Albert Campion, who was intended as a minor character but became one of Margery Allingham's most famous detectives, ultimately starring in a long-running series of novels and stories.

The book was first published in 1929 and is considered part of the "Golden Age of Detective Fiction," a period noted for its focus on intricately plotted tales of mystery and detection.

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Margery Allingham wrote The Crime at Black Dudley as a straightforward "whodunnit," but the popularity of the character Albert Campion shifted future works towards more complex narratives involving the quirky detective.

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Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1920s

Publication Year

1973

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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