Book Review: The Mad Hatter by John Dickson Carr (Dr. Gideon Fell, 2)

The Mad Hatter Mystery is a classic detective novel by John Dickson Carr that was first published in 1933. The book features Dr. Gideon Fell, a brilliant amateur detective and lexicographer, who is called upon to solve a series of bizarre and puzzling crimes in London.

The novel begins with a series of top hat thefts that are plaguing London’s elite. The hats are being stolen from some of the city’s most powerful people, including politicians and financiers. However, the thefts take a dark turn when a top hat is found on the head of a murdered man in the Tower of London.

Dr. Fell is brought in to investigate the crime and soon discovers that the murder is connected to the theft of a rare manuscript by Edgar Allan Poe. As he delves deeper into the case, Dr. Fell uncovers a web of deceit and intrigue that involves a number of prominent Londoners.

The plot of The Mad Hatter Mystery is complex and intricately woven, with multiple suspects and red herrings that keep the reader guessing until the very end. Carr’s writing is crisp and engaging, and he does an excellent job of evoking the atmosphere of 1930s London.

The character of Dr. Fell is one of the book’s strengths. He is a larger-than-life figure, with a razor-sharp intellect and a dry wit that make him a delight to read about. His interactions with the other characters are entertaining and often humorous, and he is always one step ahead of the reader.

The Mad Hatter Mystery is a classic detective novel that is sure to please fans of the genre. Carr’s writing is excellent, and the plot is clever and well-executed. Dr. Fell is a memorable character who is a joy to read about, and the atmosphere of 1930s London is expertly evoked. If you’re looking for a well-crafted whodunit that will keep you guessing until the very end, The Mad Hatter Mystery is an excellent choice. You can buy a copy off Amazon here.

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