Murder in the maze

by J. J. Connington

"Murder in the Maze" by J. J. Connington is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the Shandon family, particularly the twins Neville and Roger, against a backdrop of murder and intrigue set in a complex garden maze. The opening chapters introduce a tense atmosphere as the characters grapple with an ongoing legal case while foreshadowing an impending tragedy. The beginning of the novel sets the stage with Neville Shandon, a barrister preparing for a challenging cross-examination in the Hackleton case, retreating to the serenity of his brother’s estate, Whistlefield. As family dynamics unfold, the narrative builds tension with the introduction of eerie elements, hinting at a dark future. The peace is shattered when Vera Forrest and Howard Torrance venture into the Maze for a light-hearted contest, only to witness a shocking event leading to murder. Their innocent excursion quickly turns into a fight for survival as they realize the deadly consequences hiding within the hedges of the Maze. The stark contrast between the tranquil setting and the violence lurking beneath serves to engage readers, promising an intricately woven mystery filled with danger and suspense.