The Layton Court mystery

By Anthony Berkeley

A single gunshot shatters the peace of an idyllic English manor, and in its echo, the genteel world of the interwar British countryside is upended. Beneath the veneer of civility, secrets fester and suspicion flourishes-a country house murder that transforms a weekend retreat into a labyrinth of clues and motives. For those drawn to the golden age detective novel, this masterwork offers the quintessential puzzle mystery, where every conversation is a clue and every alibi is suspect. The charm of 1920s England setting is palpable, with its lush lawns, shadowed libraries, and the subtle tensions of a society in flux; yet the narrative's true brilliance lies in its keen observation of character and the intricate dance of deduction. Long unavailable and out of print for decades, this remarkable tale is now republished by Alpha Editions, restored for today's and future generations. More than a mere reprint, this edition is a collector's item and a cultural treasure-an invitation to revisit the origins of British mystery fiction, where the amateur sleuth story first flourished. Readers who cherish classic crime literature will savour the interplay of wit, suspense, and the unmistakable influence that shaped later masters like Dorothy L Sayers and those who admire the Agatha Christie style. The story's enduring appeal rests in its elegant construction and its ability to immerse mystery lovers in a world where intellect and intuition are the only weapons against deception. This volume stands as both a gripping entertainment and a vital piece of literary heritage, its restoration a testament to the enduring fascination with the puzzle mystery themes that defined a generation. Whether you are a casual reader seeking an atmospheric escape or a classic crime reader curating a distinguished library, this beautifully revived edition offers a rare opportunity to experience the genre's golden age at its most authentic and engaging.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 9374120046
• ISBN13: 9789374120040
• Release Date: February 2026
• Publisher: Alpha Edition
• Length: 200 Pages
• Weight: 0.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.0" x 0.5" x 6.0"