Perrins, Private Investigators

''Murder at Monk's Barn'' (1931) by Cecil Waye (John Rhode/Miles Burton) is a classic Golden Age mystery featuring detectives Christopher and Vivienne Perrins. They investigate the shooting of businessman Gilbert Wynter, killed through locked curtains in his home, tackling a baffling "impossible" scenario, a second poisoning, and a limited suspect pool. Gilbert Wynter is shot through thick, drawn curtains while shaving in his home, Monk's Barn Local police suspect a former servant, but Austin Wynter (the victim's brother) hires private investigators Christopher and Vivienne Perrins. The killer managed to shoot the victim from a locked garden with no apparent exit, creating a "locked-room" style mystery. Vivienne Perrins is portrayed as the intelligent, driving force behind the partnership, which collaborates with police inspector Philpott. The story includes a second murder via poisoned chocolate, domestic tensions, and a budding romance for Vivienne. This novel is the first in the "Perrins, Private Investigators" series by Cecil Waye (John Rhode) and is known for its clever puzzle.

''The Figure of Eight'' (1931) by Cecil Waye (John Rhode/Miles Burton) is a 1930s thriller featuring private investigator Christopher Perrin. It focuses on international intrigue, starting with the mysterious, non-violent death of a woman on a London bus, which leads to a plot involving murdered diplomats, stolen documents, and a sinister secret society. A woman, later identified as Lola Martinaes, is found in an unshakeable, fatal sleep on a bus. Christopher Perrin, a private investigator (similar in style to Sherlock Holmes), investigates the murder of a diplomat and uncovers a wider conspiracy. More of a thriller than a traditional "whodunit," it features rapid action, exotic poisons, and a plot that moves from a murder mystery to espionage.