First published in 1919, Arthur J. Rees's The Shrieking Pit is a classic locked-room mystery wrapped in the eerie atmosphere of the Norfolk Broads. It’s a story that proves you don’t need modern forensics for a gripping puzzle—just sharp observation and a healthy dose of skepticism.

The Story

The plot kicks off with the murder of Roger Glenthorpe, a rich American, in his room at the Grand Hotel in the village of Durrington. All evidence points to James Ronald, a traumatized World War I veteran found nearby, dazed and with the victim’s blood on his clothes. The case seems obvious to the police. Enter Ronald’s friend, the novelist Roger Colwyn. Convinced of Ronald’s innocence, Colwyn starts his own investigation. His search leads him to the local legend of the Shrieking Pit—a supposedly bottomless hole in the marsh that emits a haunting moan. Colwyn must sift through red herrings, local superstition, and seemingly impossible logistics to find the real killer before an innocent man is condemned.

Why You Should Read It

What makes this book stand out is its heart. It’s not just a cold puzzle. Colwyn’s drive comes from loyalty to a friend broken by war, which adds a layer of genuine emotion you don’t always get in golden-age mysteries. Rees also masterfully uses the bleak, misty marshland as more than just backdrop; it feeds the village’s fear and superstition, becoming an obstacle Colwyn must overcome with reason. The solution is clever and fair-play, the kind where you’ll kick yourself for not spotting the clues Rees carefully laid out. It’s a smart, patient mystery that rewards your attention.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for fans of Agatha Christie and Dorothy L. Sayers who are looking for a new (old) voice to discover. It’s also a great pick for anyone who loves mysteries where the environment plays a key role, or stories that touch on the aftermath of World War I without making it the sole focus. If you enjoy piecing together a tidy, logical puzzle while getting lost in a wonderfully gloomy setting, The Shrieking Pit is a thoroughly satisfying read.