The crime at Black Dudley

by Margery Allingham

"The Crime at Black Dudley" by Margery Allingham is a crime novel published in 1929. A house party at the remote Black Dudley manor turns deadly when Colonel Coombe dies during a mysterious ritual involving an ancient dagger. Pathologist George Abbershaw suspects murder, but before he can investigate, a dangerous criminal gang takes the guests hostage. Among the captives is the enigmatic Albert Campion, whose true identity and purpose remain unclear as the trapped guests fight for survival.