Steps to Murder by Robert Portner Koehler, published in 1943, is a classic mystery novel featuring Al Branson of the Homicide Squad. The story begins when Isabel, Al's girlfriend, visits a friend and discovers the body of the friend's ex-husband. Together, Isabel and Al investigate the murder, navigating various clues and suspects. Set against the backdrop of the 1940s, this novel is an engaging mix of detective work and suspense.