The Doorstep murders

A world where the glamour of the movie industry collides with the shadows of nefarious deeds, creating a labyrinth of suspense propelled by methodical and mystifying murders

The Doorstep Murders by Carolyn Wells presents a captivating narrative that delves into the realms of crime and cunning, weaving together a complex mystery set against the backdrop of Gilead, Connecticut. Following a Saturday night poker session, the three prominent summer residents of Gilead are discovered murdered on their respective doorsteps, setting the stage for a puzzling investigation.

Enter Kenneth Carlisle, a luminary of the silent film era turned sleuth, whose astute mind takes center stage as he navigates the elusive motives behind the murders. Wells crafts a riveting tale marked by her signature complexity of plot and keen psychological insight. The novel immerses readers in a world where the glamour of the movie industry collides with the shadows of nefarious deeds, creating a labyrinth of suspense propelled by methodical and mystifying murders.

The synchronous deaths by identical weapons suggest a profound and malevolent intelligence at work. Wells's literary style combines taut prose with meticulous period detail, firmly placing the work within the grand tradition of detective fiction's Golden Age. However, it also carves its own niche by ingeniously incorporating the ambiance of early Hollywood.



Wells's diverse body of work, influenced by her fascination with puzzles and criminal machinations, reaches a pinnacle with "The Doorstep Murders." This novel stands as a crowning achievement in her career, seamlessly blending her passion for mystery with a carefully researched backdrop of the silent film industry. The transformation of a screen icon into a detective reflects Wells's genius and enchantment with the evolving storytelling forms from novels to cinema.



The book is recommended for aficionados of classic detective stories, silent film enthusiasts, and lovers of intellectual puzzles. "The Doorstep Murders" promises a journey through gripping twists and masterfully perplexing mysteries, offering more than just a compelling narrative. It serves as a time machine, transporting readers through the streets of an age poised on the brink of profound cultural change. As a must-read for those who appreciate literature that challenges the mind while capturing an era, "The Doorstep Murders" emerges as a timely rediscovery for a new generation of readers.