The Red Triangle Being Some Further Chronicles of Martin Hewitt, Investigator   By: Arthur Morrison (1863-1945)

The Red Triangle Being Some Further Chronicles of Martin Hewitt, Investigator by Arthur Morrison is a gripping collection of detective stories that showcase the brilliance of Martin Hewitt, a lesser-known but equally fascinating counterpart to Sherlock Holmes.

Set in late 19th-century London, each story revolves around a different intriguing case that Hewitt undertakes as a private investigator. Morrison's writing style is reminiscent of the classic detective fiction genre, immersing readers in a world filled with suspense, mystery, and a touch of the macabre.

One of the most impressive aspects of this collection is the character development. Martin Hewitt is portrayed as an intelligent, astute, and resourceful detective, with a keen eye for detail and an ability to think outside the box. What sets him apart from other famous detectives of his time is his approach, which relies heavily on logic, observation, and deduction rather than extravagant leaps of intuition.

Morrison's attention to detail when constructing the cases and their solutions is commendable. He expertly weaves intricate webs of deceit, taking readers on a journey full of unexpected twists and turns. The cases often start with seemingly mundane circumstances, only to unfurl into something much more sinister and complex. This gradual revelation keeps readers engaged and eager to uncover the truth alongside Hewitt.

Another noteworthy element of these stories is the vivid portrayal of the gritty backdrop of Victorian London. As Hewitt traverses the dark streets, navigating the dark underbelly of the city, readers are presented with a rich tapestry of settings and characters. Morrison effortlessly captures the essence of the era, incorporating social commentary and exploring themes such as poverty, inequality, and the role of the police.

While The Red Triangle is a compelling collection overall, there were a few instances where the pacing felt slightly inconsistent. Some stories felt a bit rushed, while others could have benefitted from more exploration or a deeper dive into the motives and psychology of the characters. However, these moments are few and far between and do not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.

In conclusion, The Red Triangle is a captivating compilation of detective stories that artfully showcases the skills and intellect of Martin Hewitt. Fans of classic detective fiction will find great pleasure in delving into these tales of suspense, as Arthur Morrison effortlessly transports readers into the dark and mysterious world of Victorian London.

First Page:

I have already recorded many of the adventures of my friend Martin Hewitt, but among them there have been more of a certain few which were discovered to be related together in a very extraordinary manner; and it is to these that I am now at liberty to address myself. There may have been others cases which gave no indication of their connection with these; some of them indeed I may have told without a suspicion of their connection with the Red Triangle; but the first in which that singular accompaniment became apparent was the matter of Samuel's diamonds... Continue reading book >>