A masterful blend of classic detective fiction and intellectual intrigue, The Footsteps at the Lock is one of Ronald A. Knox's most compelling mysteries, featuring the sharp-witted investigator Miles Bredon. As a seasoned detective working for the Indescribable Insurance Company, Bredon is tasked with unraveling perplexing cases where financial stakes and foul play often intertwine. In this novel, a seemingly straightforward disappearance takes a sinister turn when two cousins—one set to inherit a significant fortune—embark on a punting trip along the Oxford canal. When only one of them returns, suspicion arises, and Bredon is called in to uncover the truth. Following a trail of cryptic clues, eerie footprints, and conflicting testimonies, Bredon must piece together the mystery before time runs out. With Knox's signature blend of wit, engaging storytelling, and intricate puzzle-solving, The Footsteps at the Lock captures the essence of Golden Age detective fiction. Set against the picturesque yet mysterious backdrop of Oxford, this novel is a must-read for fans of sophisticated whodunits, offering suspense, clever deductions, and an unforgettable detective at the helm of the investigation.