The Floating Admiral is a collaborative mystery novel written by members of the Detection Club, a group of British crime writers that included Agatha Christie, Dorothy L. Sayers, and G.K. Chesterton, among others. First published in 1931, the novel is notable for its unique structure, in which each chapter is written by a different author. The result is a complex and fascinating whodunit that keeps the reader guessing until the very end.

The story revolves around the murder of Admiral Penistone, who is found dead in his cabin aboard the yacht, the Siren. The murder takes place on the first night of a cruise that the Admiral has arranged with a group of friends, all of whom become suspects in the crime. The investigation is led by Inspector Rudge of Scotland Yard, who must navigate a complex web of conflicting stories and hidden motives in order to identify the killer.

One of the most interesting aspects of The Floating Admiral is the way in which the different authors work together to create a cohesive narrative. Each author brings their own style and perspective to the story, and the result is a novel that is rich in detail and complexity. The changing voices and styles keep the story fresh and engaging, and the reader is constantly kept on their toes as new clues and revelations come to light.

The characters in The Floating Admiral are all well-drawn and complex, with their own distinct personalities and motivations. The members of the cruise party are a diverse group, with various professions and backgrounds, and each is given their moment in the spotlight as the investigation unfolds. The yacht itself is almost a character in its own right, and the various nooks and crannies of the vessel provide plenty of opportunities for secret meetings and shady dealings.

The investigation itself is a highlight of the book, as Inspector Rudge uses his sharp mind and attention to detail to gradually piece together the clues. The reader is given plenty of opportunities to follow along with the investigation, and the various red herrings and false leads keep the mystery interesting and engaging. The solution to the crime is satisfyingly complex, and the various threads of the story are tied up in a way that is both surprising and logical.

The Floating Admiral is a classic whodunit that showcases the skill and ingenuity of some of the greatest mystery writers of the 20th century. The collaborative structure of the novel is unique and fascinating, and the various authors work together seamlessly to create a rich and complex mystery that will keep the reader guessing until the very end. Fans of classic British detective fiction will find much to enjoy in this book, and it is sure to appeal to anyone who loves a good mystery. You can pick up a copy of The Floating Admiral from Amazon here.