Ask a Policeman

In Ask a Policeman, a murder mystery unfolds as four detectives attempt to solve the case of a newspaper tycoon without police assistance.

This classic crime novel, Ask a Policeman, features contributions from six distinguished authors and is introduced by Martin Edwards, the archivist of the Detection Club. Notably, it includes a previously unpublished Preface by Agatha Christie titled 'Detective Writers in England,' where she shares insights into her writing process and her fellow writers within the Detection Club. This preface offers a unique glimpse into the world of crime fiction during a pivotal time in literary history.

The plot of Ask a Policeman revolves around the murder of Lord Comstock, a ruthless newspaper magnate with powerful enemies. His death occurs in the confines of his country house, leading to a complex investigation fraught with political implications. In the hours leading up to his demise, several notable figures, including the government Chief Whip, an Archbishop, and the Assistant Commissioner for Scotland Yard, visited him. As suspicion mounts, the integrity of the police investigation is at stake, prompting the Home Secretary to take an unconventional approach.

To resolve the mystery, the Home Secretary enlists four renowned detectives: Mrs. Adela Bradley, Sir John Saumarez, Lord Peter Wimsey, and Mr. Roger Sheringham. Each detective brings their unique perspective and methods to the case, but they must navigate the constraints of not involving the police. The collaboration of these literary giants in Ask a Policeman makes for an engaging and intricate tale of crime and deduction.